A new rail based frontal interface for smart parcel locker modules

Abstract

The invention relates to a novel rail-based pull-out structure featuring a frame mechanism that utilizes a single chassis instead of separate inner and outer chassis components, thereby achieving a lightweight and cost-effective design. Unlike conventional systems that use shelves, this structure supports the front door, lock, and hinges through a movable frontal frame, facilitating easier maintenance operations. The frame mechanism is connected to the single chassis via a service locking mechanism, which allows the frame to be secured or released. The mechanism is engaged by pushing the front frame into place or disengaged by unlocking the service lock at the top section of the parcel locker and pulling the side locking rail handle. The entire assembly—including the lock and hinge components—moves together along a rail mechanism, enabling seamless servicing and integration.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] A NEW RAIL BASED FRONTAL INTERFACE FOR SMART PARCEL LOCKER MODULES

[0003] Technical Area:

[0004] The invention relates to a new rail based frontal interface for smart parcel lockers modules which make the frontal interface movable. This results in easier access to locks and cables, which decreases production and servicing times substantially. It makes it possible to produce smart parcel lockers that have the same functionality with a single chassis instead of two chassis which are configured as inner and outer chassis. This results in less material usage, is more environmentally friendly, has a low-cost structure and at the same time provides easy maintenance to field operators by pulling a frame holding the cover, lock and hinges forward.

[0005] Known State of the Art:

[0006] In the known state of the art, two types of chassis exist for parcel lockers. The first type is a double-chassis smart parcel locker design that makes it possible to extend the inner chassis out and access locks / cables. The second one is single-chassis smart parcel locker design which does not provide such a function and requires operators to service the machine from the back or by any other means which are not efficient in terms of access speed or installation space.

[0007] In smart parcel lockers that have a double chassis design, the inner chassis is locked to the outer chassis using one or more locks. While the outer chassis provides protection from external events, the inner chassis carries the functional elements of the parcel locker. The inner chassis contains all shelves, covers and lock / hinge mechanisms of the module. In cases where maintenance / repair is required, the lock connecting the inner and outer chassis is released and the inner chassis is dragged out on wheels or skids and the necessary operations are carried out on it. After the maintenance / repair operations are completed, the inner chassis is pushed inside the outer chassis and locked.

[0008] Single chassis parcel lockers traditionally don’t have such a feature. They are designed and manufactured according to customer needs and have standard shelves and lock systems. Insuch parcel lockers, covers and necessary internal surfaces are disassembled for maintenance / repair and reassembled after the operations are completed. In some parcel lockers, access is provided by even moving the entire parcel locker. In this type of machines, locks and lock cables do not have a practical maintenance interface. Other single chassis designs have separate lock / cable / controller hatches which are accessible from the outside and basically waste precious installation area.

[0009] The problems and deficiencies encountered in these designs make it necessary to develop a new frontal interface for smart parcel locker modules.

[0010] Purpose of the Invention:

[0011] The invention aims to provide an easy to use, lightweight and low-cost structure that makes it possible to access and maintain locks, controllers and cables in parcel locker modules.

[0012] The technical advantages of the invention subject to registration are as follows:

[0013] The use of sheet metal has been reduced by using a single chassis instead of two chassis. In this way, a lighter and low-cost structure is achieved. Easier maintenance by pulling only the front frame instead of pulling an inner cabinet

[0014] is provided. Since a relatively lighter system is moved, it is much easier for field personnel to make maintenance.

[0015] - Since the frame moves on the side rails, it isn’t completely separated from the main chassis and does not risk tipping off. It is also easier to put back into place. In double frame systems, the heavy inner chassis always has the risk of tipping off and falling on to field personnel if not correctly handled, this design mitigates this risk completely.

[0016] The locks, controllers and the cables connected to locks are easier to access and can be maintained / replaced much more easily. Field operators do not need to unmount any parts or move modules of the parcel locker. They caneasily unlock and pull the frontal interface towards themselves and gain access to the system.

[0017] When maintaining locks, instead of providing access to customer cargo, only access to the lock, controllers and cables are provided.

[0018] - The side locking mechanism ensures full contact of the front frame with the chassis and makes it impossible for attackers to open the system without unlocking properly.

[0019] Explanation of Figures:

[0020] Figures are shown below.

[0021] Figure. l.View of the frame section

[0022] Figure 2.View of the pocket section

[0023] Figure 3.View of the rail assembly section

[0024] Figure 4.Top sectional view

[0025] Figure 5. Open view of the side locking mechanism of the front frame and chassis.

[0026] Figure 6. View of the side locking mechanism of the front frame and chassis before locking

[0027] Figure 7. Locked view of the side locking mechanism of the front frame and chassis.

[0028] Figure 8. Side locking mechanism handle view

[0029] Description of the invention:

[0030] The invention consists of a single chassis and a movable frame mechanism. The service lock on the upper part of the parcel locker is opened with a key and the frame is released by pulling the side locking mechanism lever. The box compartments in the parcel locker are fixed to the chassis, while the box covers are attached to the movable frame.In the invention subject to registration, the frame is locked by firmly moving the frame using the rail mechanism to the smart parcel locker chassis using locking mechanisms. It can be unlocked by pulling the unlocking handle located at the top of the module.

[0031] Locks, cables, controllers, hinges and box covers move together with the frame. When the frame is locked in place, these are inserted within a pocket structure which hides them from users of the smart parcel locker.

[0032] In the invention subject to registration, thanks to its fully modular structure, modules with same of different customized chassis types and numbers can be added to the smart parcel locker and can operate on their own without mechanical chassis connections. Here, only connecting communication and power cables to the appropriate controllers are sufficient.

[0033] The invention is characterized by:

[0034] - Having a single chassis,

[0035] - Movable frontal frame by the help of a rail mechanism, - Locked and unlocked from the chassis using a handle which unlocks side locks,

[0036] Application the invention to industry:

[0037] The invention can be used in all smart parcel machines or similar machines that required safe storage of items in all fields and purposes.

Claims

CLAIMS1. The invention relates to a novel rail-based pull-out structure which utilizes a single chassis instead of separate inner and outer chassis elements, thereby providing a lightweight and cost-effective design, and enables easier maintenance by pulling out a frontal frame that holds the door, lock, and hinge components instead of using an internal chassis, characterized by:• a single chassis,• a frame mechanism that is connected to the chassis via a service lock and a side locking mechanism, which is released by unlocking the service lock at the upper section of the locker and pulling the side locking rail, or locked into position by pushing the front frame into place, wherein the frame moves along a rail mechanism and the lock and hinge components move integrally with the frame.

1. The rail-based pull-out structure of claim 1, characterized in that the frame comprises a compartment in which the lock and hinge mechanisms are housed, such that these components remain concealed when the frame is locked in place, preventing access or tampering by users or unauthorized personnel.

2. The rail -based pull-out structure according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that it has a fully modular design allowing additional modules, each with a desired number and type of compartments, to be attached to the main module and to function independently without requiring a direct connection to the main module’s chassis.

3. The rail-based pull-out structure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a handle located on the upper section, allowing the mechanism to be opened from the top.

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