Credentialed Package Containment for Secure Doorstep Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The concern for the security of unattended packages delivered to doorsteps is a significant issue, as they are often left unsecured, which can deter consumers from using online retailers and slow the growth of direct-to-consumer delivery services.
Innovation Solution
A package securement device with a containment unit, a lock, and a communication module that uses credentials for access control, integrated with a door lock or as a standalone accessory, allowing secure delivery and retrieval through wireless communication protocols like NFC, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, and optionally incorporating a mesh bag or box with a tether for additional security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If packages are left unsecured on doorsteps for delivery, then delivery speed and convenience are improved, but package security and consumer confidence deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a containment device as an intermediary between the package and the unsecured environment. This device acts as a protective mediator that maintains package security while enabling rapid delivery placement, resolving the contradiction between speed and security by decoupling these two functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the delivery process into distinct phases: secure containment during delivery, controlled access for retrieval, and notification to the recipient. This segmentation allows the package to be delivered quickly while maintaining security through the contained state, addressing both speed and reliability requirements.
2Reliability
If a secure containment device with access control is used, then package security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The containment device is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall complexity. It integrates credential verification, lock control, notification systems, and wireless communication into a single unified device, eliminating the need for multiple separate security systems and thereby managing complexity while maintaining high security.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates automatic credential verification and lock control mechanisms that operate autonomously without requiring manual intervention for each access event. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity while maintaining robust security protocols.
3Reliability
If credential verification systems are integrated, then access control reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical access control with electronic credential verification systems that use wireless communication protocols. This substitution automates the verification process, improving reliability through consistent electronic validation while maintaining ease of operation through contactless credential presentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary credential verification before granting access, automatically validating credentials in advance of the actual package retrieval action. This preliminary action ensures high reliability of access control while keeping the actual user interaction simple and quick.
4Loss of information
If remote communication modules are added for monitoring, then delivery status visibility is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module operates using periodic action rather than continuous transmission. It sends status updates at specific intervals or triggered by specific events (such as package placement, access attempts, or credential verification), thereby providing comprehensive delivery status visibility while minimizing energy consumption by keeping the communication system dormant between updates.
Data Source
AI summary
A package securement device includes a containment device in the form of either a bag or a box for receiving packages. The containment device includes an opening allowing for removal and insertion of packages. Access may be given to the interior of the containment device through an electronic device with a credential receiver configured to receive a credential input by a user. A communication module with a wireless transmitter connected to the electronic device transmits and receive a wireless communication regarding a status of the containment bag. A remote user interface may be used to monitor and control access to the containment device.