Receiving device for parcels or packages delivered by air
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fully automated drone delivery systems face challenges such as precise navigation interference, sabotage risks due to signal corruption, unsolicited or dangerous package delivery, and theft, especially in high-rise settings where the cost of sophisticated receiving devices is prohibitive and geo-coordinate registration is lacking.
Innovation Solution
A receiving device with a weatherproof housing, infrared optical signaling, and a transceiver for wireless signal reception, which uses encrypted authorization information to verify and communicate with drones, minimizing internet connectivity for security, and employing a cable with an electromagnet for precise package placement, along with a QR Code reader for secure delivery information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If satellite-based navigation systems are used for drone delivery, then navigation coverage is improved, but navigation precision deteriorates due to signal corruption
Solution Approach 1:
A receiving device with optical signaling acts as an intermediary between the drone and the final delivery location. The device receives encrypted authorization information optically from the drone, verifies it locally, and then facilitates package transfer without requiring the drone to maintain precise satellite navigation throughout the final approach. This intermediary system enables delivery in areas where satellite signals may be corrupted or unavailable.
2Reliability
If sophisticated receiving devices with mechanization are deployed, then delivery security is improved, but device cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical receiving devices with a simplified approach: a receiving device that primarily uses optical signaling and encrypted authorization verification. The drone carries the package physically, and the receiving device only needs optical reception capabilities and basic verification logic, eliminating the need for sophisticated mechanical manipulation systems while maintaining security through cryptographic verification.
3Reliability
If encrypted authorization information is used for verification, then delivery security is improved, but communication complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the cryptographic verification function from the communication protocol itself and places it in the receiving device. The drone transmits encrypted authorization information using standard optical signaling, and the receiving device independently performs verification using stored verification data. This separation allows simple communication protocols to be used while maintaining high security through local verification.
4Measurement precision
If GPS signals are used for precise location, then navigation accuracy is improved, but vulnerability to sabotage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by using encrypted authorization verification before the delivery occurs. Instead of relying on continuous GPS tracking that could be spoofed, the system establishes security in advance through cryptographic authentication of the drone's authorization information. This preliminary verification prevents sabotage attempts that would otherwise compromise delivery accuracy or security.
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
Enhances the security and precision of drone delivery by preventing sabotage and theft, reducing costs through minimal mechanization and configuration, and ensuring accurate package placement with encrypted communication and secure authorization.
Implementation Method 1
an optical signaling device (e.g., an emitter or a light emitting diode) that emits signals, preferably in the infrared range, that illuminate the opening
Implementation Method 2
the drone will be able to pick up the package and transport the package for delivery. Immediately prior to the delivery, the drone will extend the cable to a length of about 2 meters or more with the help of a small winch. With the cable extended, the drone will be able to maneuver the parcel or package suspended in the air and will be able to stop the package or parcel from moving in the air through an automated flight maneuver.
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments relate to an apparatus comprising a receiving device (200) configured to receive a package (1) delivered via an airborne drone (100). The receiving device (200) includes a receptacle (201), an optical scanner (208), a transceiver (207), and at least one light emitter (204) in operative connection with a computer (203). The optical scanner (208) is operative to read optical indicia that includes a delivery code. The transceiver (207) is operative to receive a signal that includes a verification code and an encrypted one time code from the drone (100). If the verification code has a predetermined relationship with the delivery information, the computer (203) is operative to decrypt the one time code and to transmit an encrypted optical signal through the at least one light emitter (204) whereby the drone (100) is enabled to identify the receiving device (200) and to position the package (1) therein.