Drone Package Receptacle for Secure One-Way Delivery Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current package delivery systems are unreliable in ensuring secure storage and access of packages at the point of delivery, as they are often vulnerable to theft and require manual handling, which can lead to delays and inconvenience for both delivery personnel and recipients.
Innovation Solution
A package delivery drone system that includes a secure package receptacle equipped with a one-way access mechanism, locking system, and mobile application for notification and remote access, which secures packages on a concrete slab and allows only authorized individuals to access the contents, while providing real-time updates and alerts for delivery status and potential tampering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If packages are left on the doorstep for delivery, then delivery speed is improved, but security against theft deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a smart package receptacle as an intermediary between the delivery location and the recipient. This receptacle securely stores packages after delivery, preventing theft while enabling fast delivery. The receptacle acts as a mediator that resolves the conflict between speed and security by providing secure storage without requiring recipient presence at the delivery moment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a secure package storage system is implemented, then security against theft is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The smart package receptacle employs self-service mechanisms including automatic locking upon package insertion, automated notifications to recipients via mobile applications, and autonomous security monitoring. These self-service features reduce the need for complex manual security systems while maintaining high security standards, thereby managing device complexity effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the receptacle communicates package arrival, storage status, and security events to the recipient's mobile device. This feedback loop enables the system to respond automatically to various conditions, simplifying the overall control architecture while maintaining robust security through automated decision-making based on real-time status information.
3Ease of operation
If manual package handling is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity of delivery system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical package handling with an automated drone delivery system. The drone autonomously transports packages to the receptacle and deposits them without requiring manual intervention from delivery personnel. This substitution dramatically improves delivery productivity while maintaining ease of operation through automated processes that require minimal human input.
4Productivity
If automated drone delivery is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The smart package receptacle is designed as a multi-functional device that serves multiple purposes: secure package storage, automated notification to recipients, security event monitoring, and interface with the drone delivery system. By consolidating these functions into a single universal device, the system achieves high productivity through automation while managing overall complexity through functional integration rather than proliferation of separate systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for delivering to a package receptacle using a drone provides a secure automated delivery service for packages amongst users. The system accomplishes this by providing a receptacle that is equipped to store items for selective removal. The system includes at least one remote server and at least one delivery drone, wherein the remote server and the delivery drone are communicably coupled to each other. The system further includes at least one package receptacle capable of storing and selectively dispensing contained packages. Delivery instructions, including a pickup location and a receptacle location, are then sent from the remote server to the delivery drone. The physical package is next collected at the pickup location with the delivery drone. Once the delivery drone arrives at the receptacle location, the delivery drone lands atop the package receptacle and deposits the physical package safely inside.