Automated Parcel Receptacle with RFID Tracking and Oversized Alerts

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing parcel delivery systems face challenges in securely and conveniently delivering large packages, as they often require multiple delivery attempts, can lead to parcel theft, and lack definitive confirmation of safe delivery, especially when items exceed the capacity of standard containers.

Innovation Solution

An automated secured package delivery system that uses network-connected devices with RFID or NFC tracking tags to confirm delivery, notify both the purchaser and shipper of large packages, and provide anti-vandal and anti-theft features, including proximity detection and alarm systems, to ensure secure and convenient delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual locking and unlocking of containers is used for parcel delivery, then security of parcels is improved, but convenience for delivery person and purchaser is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automatic locking and unlocking of containers through electronic access controls (keypad, RFID cards, biometric scanners) that operate without manual intervention by delivery personnel. The container automatically locks when a package is placed inside and unlocks when the authorized recipient approaches or enters a code, eliminating the need for manual locking/unlocking operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical locking systems with electronic and automated mechanisms including electronic locks, RFID authentication systems, biometric scanners, and automated door openers. These systems use electrical and electronic fields instead of mechanical key-based locking, providing both enhanced security and automatic operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If parcels are left unattended for delivery, then delivery efficiency is improved, but risk of parcel theft is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces secure lockable containers as an intermediary between the delivery person and the recipient. The container acts as a secure holding point where packages can be left unattended during delivery, yet remain protected through automated locking mechanisms. The container mediates the transfer of packages without requiring the recipient to be present, eliminating theft risk while maintaining delivery efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs single-use or short-term rental secure containers that are deployed temporarily for delivery purposes. These containers are designed for brief periods of secure storage, automatically locking when a package is placed inside and unlocking when the authorized recipient arrives. The temporary nature of these containers provides security during the critical delivery window without requiring long-term secure storage infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Device complexity

If standard containers are used for all parcel sizes, then device simplicity is improved, but ability to accommodate large packages is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the storage space into multiple modular compartments or sections within the container. Each compartment can be independently accessed or configured, allowing the container to accommodate packages of various sizes. The segmentation enables flexible arrangement of packages without requiring different container types, maintaining system simplicity while improving adaptability to different package dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system ensures simultaneous confirmation and data sharing for secure delivery, alerts for oversized packages, and protects temperature and humidity-sensitive items, reducing theft and inconvenience by notifying recipients and ensuring timely retrieval of unsecured large packages.

Implementation Method 1

provid at least one of an RFID tracking tag and NFC tracking tag to the item

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRFID (Radio Frequency Identification): Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

provid at least one of an RFID tracking tag and NFC tracking tag to the item

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectNFC (Near Field Communication): Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

when the item to be delivered exceeds a capacity of the purchaser accessible entity to be stored therein, the item can be positioned proximate to the purchaser accessible entity and detectable by the device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectProximity detection:

Data Source

PatentUS11763246B2Device for use with an automated secured package delivery system

Publication Date: 2023.09.19

AI summary

A device for use in conjunction with a parcel receptacle apparatus in an automated secured package delivery system. When an item is delivered to a purchaser of the item, a simultaneous confirmation of the delivery and the status of the item is sent to each of the purchaser and a shipper of the item over a network, and immediately informs both a purchaser and shipper of situations where delivery items are placed which are too large to be accommodated within the parcel receptacle apparatus.