Determining traffic data useful for electronic compartment management systems

Abstract

This disclosure discloses, among other things, a sensing device (100) for an electronic parcel compartment system (200), the electronic parcel compartment system (200) having one or more selectively securable parcel compartments allowing for storage of one or more parcels. The sensing device (100) is removably placeable in the electronic parcel compartment system (200) to sense signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at, i.e. in vicinity of, the electronic parcel compartment system (200). The sensing device (100) is also configured to obtain count data indicative of a quantity of people being present within said zone and to collect said count data over a period of time to establish traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone.

Description

[0001] DETERMINING TRAFFIC DATA USEFUL FOR ELECTRONIC

[0002] COMPARTMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

[0003] Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the general field of logistics. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to electronic parcel compartment systems (a.k.a. locker systems), for example used for last-mile delivery services. The present disclosure inter alia presents a method of determining traffic data of people in a vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system as well as a sensing device for an electronic parcel compartment system.

[0005] Background

[0006] Electronic parcel compartment systems, a.k.a locker systems, are known in the art. Generally, an electronic parcel compartment system comprises a plurality of compartments. Each compartment comprises a respective door that, in an opened state, allows objects to be placed into or retrieved from an interior of the compartment. A lock associated with the door allows the door to be locked (non-openable) or unlocked (openable) and thus allows for controlling access to the compartment. It is common that the compartments are operated electronically.

[0007] Electronic parcel compartment systems are typically manufactured by different companies. In addition, different service providers operate different electronic parcel compartment systems. Hence, a single delivery service company may operate electronic parcel compartment systems manufactured by different companies.

[0008] In addition, delivery service companies are generally interested in optimizing their delivery services in various ways. To this end, data is becoming increasingly valuable and helpful in the planning of the operations.

[0009] Existing traffic monitoring solutions as cited by the Swedish Intellectual Property Office in the Swedish patent application SE 2450715-4, such as those described in WO 2008 / 055865 Al and US 2012 / 0182172 Al are often expensive, complex to deploy, and require significant infrastructure, such as dedicated telecommunications equipment or permanent installations. These solutions are not well- suited for monitoring traffic in the immediate vicinity of electronic parcel compartment systems, where a low-cost, easily deployable, and non-intrusive solution is desired. While US 2015 / 0186840 Al discloses electronic parcel compartment systems, it does not address the need for efficient and flexible traffic monitoring within and around these systems.

[0010] Summary

[0011] The co-inventors of this patent application have realized that it would be helpful to acquire information related to people that are located and / or passing by different electronic compartment systems at different locations and / or at different periods of time (e.g., hours, days, weeks, etc).

[0012] It is therefore in view of the background above that the embodiments disclosed herein have been made.

[0013] This disclosure therefore addresses the problem of determining accurate and precise traffic data of people in the vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system, preferably in a non-complex, flexible and / or non-expensive way.

[0014] As will be described in further detail herein, this disclosure addresses a need, or desire, as realized by the inventors for efficient and flexible traffic monitoring within and around electronic compartments systems by proposing a removably placeable sensing device that can be easily placed, maintained, and replaced without requiring any specialized knowledge or tools. The disclosure presents a cost-effective and easily scalable solution for gathering traffic data in these environments.

[0015] In general, this disclosure therefore, for example, presents solutions for sensing signals from mobile devices within a vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system, obtaining or otherwise acquiring count data to determine the quantity of people present, and collecting this data over time to establish traffic data indicative of people traffic within a zone in vicinity of the electronic compartment system.

[0016] Data regarding people flow in the vicinity of a locker system can then be turned into intelligence or other insights, which may be useful, e.g., for the delivery service company.

[0017] For example, such intelligence or other insights may include: - adjusting the number and / or sizes of the compartments at different locations based on the average number of people flow around an electronic compartment system (adding / removing electronic compartment systems or locker systems if needed, or adding / removing compartments from an electronic compartment system).

[0018] - determining the amount of time people stay in the vicinity of the electronic compartment system;

[0019] - optimizing the delivery time for the electronic compartment system (e.g., if people pass by the electronic compartment system mostly around 15:00 hrs, then deliveries are planned so that the parcels are delivered before that time);

[0020] - tracking the driver arrival and time spent before starting to load the compartment(s) of the electronic compartment system;

[0021] - possibly distinguish between phone operating systems of people in the vicinity of the electronic compartment system / s (e.g., iOS vs android);

[0022] - adjusting visible directions such as signs or arrows to help customers find the electronic compartment systems (e.g., maybe people pass by without being able to easily find the locker);

[0023] - estimating the density of population to adjust volume of the merchants.

[0024] It is in view of the above considerations and others that the co-inventors have realized that there is a need for acquiring data related to traffic of people in a vicinity of electronic compartment systems.

[0025] Accordingly, it is a general object of the invention disclosed herein to address this need. This general object is addressed by the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. The embodiments are associated with various advantages and / or technical effects as will be appreciated in the following.

[0026] In a first aspect, there is disclosed a method of determining traffic data of people in a vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system, the electronic parcel compartment system comprising at least one selectively securable (or otherwise lockable) parcel compartment, allowing for storage of one or more parcels.

[0027] The method comprises:

[0028] (i) sensing, by a sensing device which is removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system, signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at the electronic parcel compartment system; and in response

[0029] (ii) obtaining count data indicative of a quantity of people being present within the zone; and

[0030] (iii) collecting the count data over a period of time to establish, or otherwise determine, traffic data indicative of people traffic within the zone.

[0031] This method enables a relatively simple and non-expensive solution for acquiring established traffic data indicative of people traffic within a vicinity zone of the electronic compartment system. For example, the method may enable precise monitoring of people traffic around the electronic parcel compartment system, e.g. providing valuable insights into peak usage times.

[0032] By utilizing a removably placed sensing device, the method offers flexibility in deployment and maintenance, allowing for easy installation and replacement without the need for permanent alterations to the parcel compartment system.

[0033] The collection of count data over time facilitates the analysis of traffic patterns, which can be used to optimize the placement and operation of the electronic parcel compartment system for improved user convenience and efficiency.

[0034] The method further provides the advantage of determining traffic data of people in the vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system, allowing for better understanding and analysis of people traffic patterns.

[0035] The method allows for the use of a sensing device that can be easily placed and removed from the electronic parcel compartment system, providing flexibility and convenience in monitoring people traffic.

[0036] The method may also utilize short-range wireless technology, such as e.g. WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, or IR, to sense mobile devices within a zone in the vicinity of the electronic compartment system, enabling accurate and efficient data collection.

[0037] The method may, e.g., allow for communication of established traffic data to a courier device, facilitating real-time monitoring and management of people traffic within the zone. The method may additionally, or alternatively, allow for the communication of established traffic data to a cloud service, providing a centralized platform for data storage, analysis, and integration with other systems or applications.

[0038] The method may additionally, or alternatively, allow for the sensing device to be returned to a delivery service company for acquiring or otherwise downloading of the established traffic data by an operator.

[0039] In one embodiment, the method further comprises a sensing device being removably placed in or on a parcel, which is removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system. Hence, the method may comprise removably placing the sensing device into, or on, a parcel to be shipped and be removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system. Placing the sensing device in or on a parcel allows inter alia for discrete data collection without drawing attention to the monitoring process, preserving the aesthetic integrity of the parcel compartment environment. This embodiment can possibly provide a more accurate count of people interacting directly with parcels, as opposed to those merely passing by, potentially leading to more targeted traffic data. The removability of the sensing device from the parcel may further ensure that the sensing device can be transferred between parcels as needed, maximizing the utility of a single device.

[0040] In one embodiment, the method may further comprise a sensing device being operable to apply a short-range wireless technology to sense the one or more mobile devices being present within the zone. The use of short-range wireless technology enables the sensing device to detect mobile devices within a precise vicinity, reducing the likelihood of counting people outside the intended zone and improving the accuracy of the traffic data. Also, short-range sensing technologies typically consume less power than long-range alternatives, which can extend the operational life of the sensing device between charges or battery replacements. The operability of the sensing device with short- range wireless technology further allows for a less intrusive method of data collection, as it does not require direct interaction with the mobile devices being sensed.

[0041] In one embodiment, the method further comprises a short-range wireless technology being any one or a combination of the group consisting of: WiFi, Bluetooth, Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Infrared (IR), and any other current or future short-range wireless technology.

[0042] The versatility of supporting multiple short-range wireless technologies, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, and IR, could ensure compatibility with a wide range of mobile devices, increasing the comprehensiveness of the traffic data collected. The ability to use a combination of these technologies can also provide redundancy and improve the reliability of the sensing device in various environmental conditions and user scenarios.

[0043] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, each technology offers unique benefits, such as the high precision of UWB or the widespread availability of WiFi and Bluetooth, allowing the method to be tailored to specific requirements of the location of the electronic parcel compartment system, the design of electronic parcel compartment system, the user base, etc. The choice of technology should therefore be tested and evaluated for each specific electronic compartment system and in dependence of system requirements and needs of the users.

[0044] In one embodiment, the method may further comprise communicating the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within the zone to a courier device. Communicating the established traffic data to a courier device enables couriers to make informed decisions about delivery times and routing, potentially reducing wait times and improving overall service quality. The real-time or near-real-time transfer of traffic data can facilitate dynamic scheduling and resource allocation for courier services, leading to increased operational efficiency. By having access to traffic data, couriers can e.g. anticipate busy periods and plan their interactions with the electronic parcel compartment system accordingly, enhancing the security and safety of the parcels stored within.

[0045] Additionally, or alternatively, the method may further comprise communicating the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within the zone to a cloud service. The integration with a cloud service enables centralized data management, allowing for the aggregation and analysis of traffic data from multiple zones, which can be used to optimize resource allocation and improve operational efficiency. Real-time communication with a cloud service facilitates dynamic updating of traffic information, which can be leveraged to provide timely insights into people flow patterns, enhancing decision-making for crowd management and security purposes. Cloud-based storage of traffic data ensures scalability and accessibility, permitting stakeholders to access historical and current traffic data from any location, aiding in long-term planning and trend analysis.

[0046] Additionally, or alternatively, the sensing device can be returned to a delivery service company for acquiring or otherwise downloading of the established traffic data by an operator. Delivery service companies often have dedicated teams to handle data management and analysis. By returning the device to them, the delivery service company can analyse the data in a professional manner and adjust the delivery service accordingly so that the users can benefit from the established traffic data and derived insights. Also, instead of investing in additional infrastructure or software for data management / collection, users such as the delivery service company can leverage the existing services of the delivery service company, potentially saving costs for collecting data. If the sensing device is part of a larger network or fleet, returning it to the delivery service company allows for easier scalability. The delivery service company can efficiently manage multiple sensing devices and handle the data from a centralized location. In one embodiment, the method further comprises a sensing device being a disposable sensing device. The use of a disposable sensing device minimizes maintenance and operational costs as there is no need for device retrieval, refurbishment, or recharging after its lifecycle, making it cost-effective for short-term monitoring applications. Disposable sensing devices can be deployed in large numbers without concern for longterm asset management, allowing for extensive coverage and data collection in various environments. The disposability of the sensing device ensures that the latest technology can be utilized for each new deployment, keeping the sensing capabilities up-to-date and reducing the risk of technological obsolescence.

[0047] In one embodiment, the method may further comprise a sensing device comprising one or more rechargeable batteries. Incorporating rechargeable batteries in the sensing device promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the need for singleuse batteries and minimizing electronic waste. Sensing devices with rechargeable batteries can be designed with power management features to optimize battery life, enabling longer deployment times and reducing the total cost of ownership. In a second aspect, there is provided a sensing device for an electronic parcel compartment system, the electronic parcel compartment system comprising at least one selectively securable (or otherwise lockable) parcel compartment allowing for storage of one or more parcels. The sensing device is characterized in that it is removably placeable in the electronic parcel compartment system to sense signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at, e.g. around, the electronic parcel compartment system, and further in that the sensing device is configured to obtain count data indicative of a quantity of people being present within the zone and to collect the count data over a period of time to establish, or otherwise determine, traffic data indicative of people traffic within the zone.

[0048] The sensing device is typically of compact dimensions, which is advantageous in various embodiments discussed herein. In a preferred embodiment, the sensing device has dimensions of approximately 10 x 10 x 5 cm. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations from these dimensions may be implemented without departing from the scope of the invention, for example in order to meet specific functional or spatial requirements.

[0049] The sensing device can be removably placed in a variety of locations within the electronic parcel compartment system, including but not limited to: inside a compartment, removably attached to an inner wall of a compartment (e.g., via adhesive, magnets), placed on a shelf within a compartment, or removably attached to the exterior of the electronic compartment system. Furthermore, the sensing device can be removably placed in or on a parcel. For example, this parcel may be a durable shipping box, or an otherwise transport-safe or impact-resistant container intended to be removably placed inside any individual compartment of the electronic parcel compartment system. In this context, it should be noted that the maximum dimensions of any individual compartment of the electronic compartment system are generally approximately 40 x 40 x 60 cm. Correspondingly, the minimum dimensions of any individual compartment are generally approximately 18 x 7.2 x 60 cm. However, as will be readily appreciated those skilled in the art, these dimensions may be varied as needed without departing from the scope of the invention, for instance in order to accommodate specific functional constraints or spatial limitations. As used herein, the term removably is intended to encompass configurations in which the sensing device may be positioned and subsequently removed without the need for tools and without permanent structural modification to the electronic parcel compartment system or the parcel, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The removability of the sensing device offers flexibility in deployment, allowing it to be easily installed, repositioned, or removed as needed to adapt to changing monitoring requirements within the electronic parcel compartment system. In other words, the sensing device can also be easily moved between different electronic parcel compartment systems to allow for rapid deployment and redeployment as needed.

[0050] The ability of the sensing device to collect count data over time provides valuable insights into peak usage times and customer behaviour patterns, which can be used to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.

[0051] By determining traffic data indicative of people traffic, the sensing device can assist in optimizing the placement and number of electronic parcel compartments, leading to improved space utilization and customer service.

[0052] In one embodiment, the sensing device is operable to apply a short-range wireless technology to sense the one or more mobile devices being present within the zone.

[0053] The application of short-range wireless technology for sensing mobile devices ensures high accuracy in detecting people’s presence, as it typically requires a closer proximity, thus for example reducing false positives from adjacent zones. In addition, short-range wireless technology often consumes less power than long-range alternatives, which can lead to longer battery life for the sensing device and lower energy costs.

[0054] The use of short-range wireless communication technologies, such as Bluetooth or WiFi, allows for the sensing device to function effectively in dense urban environments where long-range signals may be obstructed, ensuring reliable data collection.

[0055] In one embodiment, the short-range wireless technology may be any one or a combination of the group consisting of WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, and IR.

[0056] The short-range wireless technology (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, IR) may be particularly advantageous because it may minimize power consumption, reduce interference, and ensure that only devices in close proximity to the electronic parcel compartment system are detected, thereby improving the accuracy of the traffic data. The use of short-range wireless technology may also provide a more secure method of data collection compared to long-range alternatives, as the risk of interception is significantly reduced. Furthermore, the short-range wireless technology may be configured to operate at different power levels and frequencies to optimize performance in various environments. The sensing device may use a combination of different short-range wireless technologies to improve reliability and coverage, as needed for the particular implementation. The integration of short-range wireless communication technologies such as WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, and IR also enhances the versatility of the device, allowing it to interface with a wide array of other electronic devices and systems for data exchange and control.

[0057] The use of multiple short-range wireless communication options provides redundancy, ensuring reliable connectivity even if one technology fails or is unavailable, thereby improving the robustness of the device's communication capabilities.

[0058] The sensing device can be tailored to specific applications and environments by selecting the most appropriate short-range wireless technology, optimizing power consumption, and maximizing data transfer efficiency based on range, bandwidth, and interference considerations.

[0059] In one embodiment, the sensing device is configured to communicate the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within the zone to a courier device. Communicating established traffic data to a courier device enables real-time adjustments to delivery schedules and routes, improving the efficiency of courier services by allowing them to respond to dynamic traffic conditions.

[0060] Additionally, or alternatively, the sensing device is configured to communicate the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within the zone to a cloud service. By communicating traffic data to a cloud service, the device facilitates the aggregation and analysis of large datasets, enabling more sophisticated traffic management and forecasting systems that can predict and mitigate congestion. Cloud connectivity allows for remote access and monitoring of traffic conditions, providing stakeholders with the ability to make informed decisions from any location, thereby increasing operational flexibility and responsiveness. The provision of traffic data to a cloud service can enhance the customer experience by providing more accurate delivery time estimates and reducing the likelihood of missed deliveries due to unforeseen people traffic within the zone.

[0061] In one embodiment, the sensing device is a disposable sensing device. The use of a disposable sensing device can reduce maintenance requirements and costs, as there is no need for long-term servicing or battery replacement, making it ideal for short-term monitoring applications. Disposable sensing devices can be deployed in large numbers without concern for retrieval or refurbishment, allowing for extensive data collection over wide areas or in environments where device recovery is impractical.

[0062] In one embodiment, the sensing device may comprise one or more rechargeable batteries. Incorporating rechargeable batteries in the sensing device promotes sustainability by reducing waste associated with disposable batteries and lowering the environmental impact of the device's operation. The use of rechargeable batteries can lower the total cost of ownership over the device's lifespan, as the batteries can be recharged multiple times, eliminating the need for frequent replacements.

[0063] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0064] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements. Embodiments of the application will now be described with reference to the attached drawings:

[0065] FIG. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a sensing device;

[0066] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an electronic compartment management system including an electronic compartment system, where the sensing device of Fig. 1 has been removably placed in one compartment;

[0067] FIG. 2B illustrates the electronic compartment system of Fig. 2A in a scenario where a user carrying a mobile device, e.g. a mobile phone, is within a vicinity zone of the electronic compartment system; and FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for determining traffic data of people in a vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system.

[0068] Detailed Description of Embodiments

[0069] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter. The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those persons skilled in the art. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the description.

[0070] As described above, the co-inventors have realized that there is a need for acquiring traffic data related to people in the vicinity of electronic compartments systems. To address this, and in accordance with an aspect of this disclosure, the present disclosure presents a sensing device.

[0071] Reference is made to Fig. 1, which illustrates an example embodiment of a sensing device 100 for an electronic parcel compartment system 200 (Fig. 2A-2B). As can be seen in Figs. 2A-2B, the electronic parcel compartment system 200 typically comprises one or several selectively securable (or otherwise lockable) parcel compartments allowing for storage of one or more parcels. The electronic parcel compartment system 200 may be part of an electronic parcel compartment management system 400. As such, the electronic parcel compartment management system 400 may, e.g., be operated by a delivery service company that operates and manages a distributed network of multiple electronic parcel compartment systems, including the electronic parcel compartment system 200 illustrated in Figs. 2A-2B. In some example implementations, the electronic parcel compartment management system 400 includes a backend system, e.g., comprising a communication server, a backend server, one or more storages including e.g. databases, one or more track- and-trace modules and one or more communication modules. The electronic parcel compartment management system 400 per se is not a focus of this disclosure and will therefore not be further detailed herein. The sensing device 100 shown in Fig. 1 is removably placeable in the electronic parcel compartment system 200 (Fig. 2A) to sense signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone e.g. illustrated by the dashed area Z at or around the electronic parcel compartment system 200 (Fig. 2B). Typically, the sensing device 100 can be placed into one of the compartments of the electronic parcel compartment system 200 (Fig. 2A). Furthermore, the sensing device 100 is configured to obtain count data indicative of a quantity of people carrying a mobile device (e.g. a mobile phone) being present within said zone Z (Fig. 2B) and to collect said count data over a period of time to establish, or otherwise determine, traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone.

[0072] The sensing device 100 can be removably placed in a variety of locations within the electronic parcel compartment system 200, including but not limited to: inside a compartment, removably attached to an inner wall of a compartment (e.g., via adhesive, magnets), placed on a shelf within a compartment, or removably attached to the exterior of the electronic compartment system 200. Furthermore, the sensing device 100 can be removably placed in or on a parcel. Again, the term removably as used in this disclosure is to be interpreted as the sensing device can be placed and removed without tools, or without permanent alterations to the parcel compartment system or parcel.

[0073] The sensing device 100 is also typically of compact dimensions, which is advantageous in various embodiments discussed herein. In a preferred embodiment, the sensing device has dimensions of approximately 10 x 10 x 5 cm. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations from these dimensions may be implemented without departing from the scope of the invention, for example in order to meet specific functional or spatial requirements.

[0074] In this context, it should be noted that the maximum dimensions of any individual compartment of the electronic compartment system are generally approximately 40 x 40 x 60 cm. Correspondingly, the minimum dimensions of any individual compartment are generally approximately 18 x 7.2 x 60 cm. However, as will be readily appreciated those skilled in the art, these dimensions may be varied as needed without departing from the scope of the invention, for instance in order to accommodate specific functional constraints or spatial limitations. In one example implementation, as illustrated in Fig. 1, the sensing device comprises a processor 110, a storage 120 (e.g., memory), a sensing module 130 (e.g., including an antenna element), a data collection module 140 and a communication module 150.

[0075] The sensing module 130 is configured to sense signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at the electronic parcel compartment system. For example, the sensing device may be operable to apply a short-range wireless technology to sense the one or more mobile devices being present within said zone. The short-range wireless technology may be any one or a combination of the group consisting of WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, and IR. The short-range wireless technology (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, UWB, IR) may be particularly advantageous because it may minimize power consumption, reduce interference, and ensure that only devices in close proximity to the electronic parcel compartment system are detected, thereby improving the accuracy of the traffic data. The use of short-range wireless technology may also provide a more secure method of data collection compared to long-range alternatives, as the risk of interception is significantly reduced. Furthermore, the short-range wireless technology may be configured to operate at different power levels and frequencies to optimize performance in various environments. The sensing module 130 may optionally use a combination of different short-range wireless technologies to improve reliability and coverage, as needed for the particular implementation.

[0076] The data collection module 140 is configured to collect data sensed by the sensing module 130. Collected data can be stored in the storage 120. It is possible to acquire or otherwise obtain the collected data from the storage 120. For example, in some scenarios the sensing device 100 is returned, after data collection over a certain period of time, to a delivery service company for acquiring or otherwise downloading of the established traffic data by an operator. For example, upon return to a delivery service company, the operator may for instance connect the returned sensing device 100 to the operator’s computer for downloading, or otherwise acquiring, of the established traffic data. In some examples, the sensing device 100 may be connected to the operator’s computer via a wired communication interface. Additionally, or alternatively, the sensing device 100 may be connected to the operator’s computer via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or similar connector interface. In still other examples, the sensing device 100 may be connected to the operator’s computer via a wireless communication interface.

[0077] In Fig. 1, the sensing module 130 and the communication module 150 are illustrated as separate modules. In other implementations, the sensing module 130 may alternatively be part of the communication module 150. The communication module 150 is operable to communicate (i.e., transmit and / or receive data) with other devices. To this end, the communication module may comprise a transmitter (Tx) and a receiver (Rx). Alternatively, the communications module may comprise a transceiver (Tx / Rx) combining both transmission and reception capabilities. The communication module 150 may include a radio frequency (RF) interface allowing the sensing device 100 to communicate with other devices through a radio frequency band through the use of different radio frequency technologies such as 5G NR (New Radio), LTE (Long Term Evolution), WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), any other cellular network standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), or any other wireless technology. For example, the sensing device 100 is operable to communicate, via the communication module 150, the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a courier device. Additionally, or alternatively, the sensing device 100 is operable to communicate via the communication module 150, the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a cloud service. Additionally, or alternatively, the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone may be communicated to a consumer app (Fig. 2A) optionally for further transfer to the cloud service and then to a company (e.g., a delivery service company) for further data analysis.

[0078] In some embodiments, the sensing device 100 is a disposable sensing device 100.

[0079] In some embodiments, the sensing device 100 comprises one or more rechargeable batteries (not shown).

[0080] Reference is now made to Fig. 3, which illustrates a method 300 of determining traffic data of people in a vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system 200. The electronic parcel compartment system 100 comprises one or several selectively securable (or otherwise lockable) parcel compartments allowing for storage of one or more parcels.

[0081] Action 310: A sensing device, which is removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system, senses or otherwise detects signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at the electronic parcel compartment system. The zone is a zone, which is typically in the vicinity of the electronic compartment system. As used herein, vicinity should be understood to mean within meters from the electronic compartment system such as within 100 meters, 50 meters, more advantageously 30 meters and preferably within 10-15 meters from the electronic compartment system.

[0082] For example, in some implementations, a sensing module 130 of the sensing device senses or otherwise detects the signals from the one or more mobile devices being present within the relevant zone.

[0083] Action 320: Count data indicative of a quantity of people being present within said zone is obtained or otherwise acquired. Advantageously, this action or method step is performed by or otherwise implemented in the sensing device 100 itself. In other embodiments, it is conceivable that this action, or method step, is performed by or implemented in another device that is separate and distinct from the sensing device 100.

[0084] In some implementations, each mobile device that is sensed by the sensing device 100 has a unique signature included as a part of its wireless communication protocols. Such signature can be, but is not limited to, a MAC address of a WiFi communication device, Bluetooth address of a Bluetooth communication device, or the like. Hence, the sensing device is configured to sense, or otherwise listen to, publicly available wireless packages emitted by mobile devices, each package e.g. being signed by a variable ID for the mobile device in question.

[0085] Action 330: The count data is collected over a period of time to establish, or otherwise determine, traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone. Advantageously, this action or method step is performed by or otherwise implemented in the sensing device 100 itself. In other embodiments, it is conceivable that this action, or method step, is performed by or implemented in another device that is separate and distinct from the sensing device 100.

[0086] The sensing device may be removably placed in or on a parcel, which is removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system.

[0087] Furthermore, the sensing device may be operable to apply a short-range wireless technology to sense the one or more mobile devices being present within said zone. The short-range wireless technology may, e.g., be any one or a combination of the group consisting of: WiFi; Bluetooth; RFID; UWB; and IR.

[0088] As will be appreciated, the exact definition of the term vicinity as used throughout this disclosure may therefore depend on the technology used for sensing the signals by the sensing device. In other words, the exact range and hence the vicinity zone at, or around, the electronic parcel compartment system is in some embodiments determined by the short-range wireless technology used.

[0089] Action 340: The method may optionally comprise communicating the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a courier device.

[0090] Action 350: Additionally, or alternatively, the method may optionally comprise communicating the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a cloud service.

[0091] In some embodiments, the sensing device 100 is a disposable sensing device.

[0092] In some embodiments, wherein the sensing device 100 comprises one or more rechargeable batteries.

[0093] The various aspects and embodiments described herein allow for a relatively simple and non-expensive solution for acquiring traffic data indicative of people traffic within a vicinity zone of the electronic compartment system. By utilizing a removably placed sensing device, the method also offers flexibility in deployment and maintenance, allowing for easy installation and replacement without the need for permanent alterations to the parcel compartment system. The collection of count data over time facilitates the analysis of traffic patterns, which can be used to optimize the placement and operation of the electronic parcel compartment system for improved user convenience and efficiency. The method further provides the advantage of determining traffic data of people in the vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system, allowing for better understanding and analysis of people traffic patterns.

[0094] In some implementations, the removably placed sensing device can be placed in a regular parcel which is treated by the delivery service company as a regular, i.e. normal, parcel. In other words, no extra staff or tasks are associated with the acquisition of the traffic data. This contributes even further to an easy and inexpensive way of acquiring the traffic data. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, modifications and other variants of the described aspects and embodiments will come to mind to one skilled in the art having benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the specific example embodiments described in this disclosure and that modifications and other variants are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, in extensions of the inventive idea it is for example conceivable to sense other relevant variables in addition to, or in alternative to, traffic data, e.g. a temperature, in a vicinity around the electronic compartment system (e.g., cold in the winter vs. higher temperatures during spring and summer). Furthermore, although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Therefore, a person skilled in the art would recognize numerous variations to the described embodiments that would still fall within the scope of the appended claims. As used herein, the terms “comprise / comprises” or “include / includes” do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly advantageously be combined, and the inclusion of different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method (300) of determining traffic data of people in a vicinity of an electronic parcel compartment system, said electronic parcel compartment system comprising at least one selectively securable parcel compartment allowing for storage of one or more parcels, the method (300) comprising: sensing (310), by a sensing device which is removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system, signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at the electronic parcel compartment system; and in response obtaining (320) count data indicative of a quantity of people being present within said zone; collecting (330) said count data over a period of time to establish traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone.

2. The method (300) of claim 1, wherein the sensing device is removably placed in or on a parcel, which is removably placed in the electronic parcel compartment system.

3. The method (300) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensing device is operable to apply a short-range wireless technology to sense (310) the one or more mobile devices being present within said zone.

4. The method (300) of claim 3, wherein the short-range wireless technology is any one or a combination of the group consisting of:- WiFi;- Bluetooth;- Radio-Frequency Identification, RFID;- Ultra-Wideband, UWB; Infrared, IR.

5. The method (300) of any one of the claims 1-4, further comprising: communicating (340) the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a courier device.

6. The method (300) of any one of the claims 1-4, further comprising: communicating (350) the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a cloud service.

7. The method (300) of any one of the claims 1-6, wherein the sensing device is a disposable sensing device.

8. The method (300) of any one of the claims 1-6, wherein the sensing device comprises one or more rechargeable batteries.

9. The method (300) of any one of the claims 1-8, wherein the sensing device is of compact dimensions, such as approximately 10 * 10 * 5 cm.

10. A sensing device (100) for an electronic parcel compartment system (200), said electronic parcel compartment system (200) comprising at least one selectively securable parcel compartment allowing for storage of one or more parcels, characterized in that the sensing device (100) is removably placeable in the electronic parcel compartment system (200) to sense signals from one or more mobile devices being present within a zone at the electronic parcel compartment system (200), and in that the sensing device (100) is configured to obtain count data indicative of a quantity of people being present within said zone and to collect said count data over a period of time to establish traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone.

11. The sensing device (100) of claim 10, wherein the sensing device (100) is operable to apply a short-range wireless technology to sense the one or more mobile devices being present within said zone.

12. The sensing device (100) of claim 11, wherein the short-range wireless technology is any one or a combination of the group consisting of:- WiFi;- Bluetooth;- Radio-Frequency Identification, RFID;- Ultra-Wideband, UWB; Infrared, IR.

13. The sensing device (100) of any one of the claims 10-12, wherein the sensing device (100) is configured to communicate the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a courier device.

14. The sensing device (100) of any one of the claims 10-12, wherein the sensing device (100) is configured to communicate the established traffic data indicative of people traffic within said zone to a cloud service.

15. The sensing device (100) of any one of the claims 10-14, wherein the sensing device (100) is a disposable sensing device.

16. The sensing device (100) of any one of the claims 10-14, wherein the sensing device (100) comprises one or more rechargeable batteries.

17. The sensing device (100) of any one of the claims 10-16, wherein the sensing device (100) is of compact dimensions, such as approximately 10 x 10 x 5Cm.

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