Collapsible Secure Bag Mailbox for Multi-Parcel Delivery Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel delivery systems are inefficient and insecure, particularly when no one is home to receive deliveries, and they often require large, cumbersome, and costly devices that cannot accommodate multiple deliveries or secure small parcels effectively.
Innovation Solution
A compact mailbox with a flexible, secure bag that can be rolled up or compressed for storage and locked to hold multiple parcels, featuring various secure materials and locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large lockable area is provided to accommodate parcels of all sizes, then parcel capacity is improved, but the device size and complexity increase making it unsuitable for confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using a flexible bag that can change its configuration between a compressed storage state and an expanded delivery state. The bag expands dynamically to accommodate parcels of various sizes and then returns to a compact form for storage, eliminating the need for a permanently large structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the bag's physical state between compressed and expanded configurations. This allows the same bag to provide different effective volumes as needed, accommodating small or large parcels without requiring the housing to be permanently sized for the largest possible parcel.
2Reliability
If a non-collapsible box is used to secure parcels, then security is improved, but the device projection from the door increases creating a striking hazard and requiring more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a collapsible bag that can be compressed into a compact configuration when not in use, minimizing projection from the door and eliminating the striking hazard. When needed, the bag expands to provide secure parcel storage, maintaining security while reducing spatial footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies flexible shells by using a flexible bag made of secure material that can be compressed and expanded. This flexible structure provides the necessary security when expanded for parcel storage but collapses to a thin profile when not in use, eliminating the projection problem of rigid boxes.
3Strength
If a rigid hinged panel box is used, then structural strength is improved, but the box cannot be collapsed for compact storage and requires large manufacturing materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible shells by replacing rigid hinged panels with a flexible bag made of secure material. This flexible structure provides sufficient strength for securing parcels while being easily manufacturable and collapsible, eliminating the complexity of rigid panel construction and large material requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies composite materials by using a flexible bag constructed from secure material that combines flexibility with strength. This composite structure provides the necessary structural integrity for security while maintaining the ability to collapse and compress, avoiding the material intensity of rigid panel construction.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple parcels are delivered at different times, then delivery flexibility is improved, but existing devices cannot securely hold multiple parcels simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a flexible bag that can accommodate parcels of varying sizes and quantities. The same bag structure can securely hold one small parcel or multiple larger parcels by adjusting its expansion, providing multi-functionality for different delivery scenarios without requiring separate storage compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by using a flexible bag that can dynamically adjust its volume and configuration to accommodate different numbers and sizes of parcels. The bag expands to fit the contents rather than requiring pre-defined compartments, enabling secure storage of multiple deliveries with varying dimensions.
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 3A
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mailbox for receiving and holding articles. The mailbox comprising: a bag made from secure material and into which a said article is received placed, the bag being positionable between a stored position and an in-use position where the article is received in the bag. The mailbox further comprising securing means to secure the article in the bag; and, a housing in which the bag can be stored and from which the bag can be removed, the bag being secured against unauthorised removal.