Electronic Parcel Locker Access Control via PIN and Barcode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing delivery systems are inconvenient, particularly for large items that do not fit in conventional mailboxes, leading to high rates of failed first attempts and inefficiencies in item retrieval, with physical keys posing security and tracking challenges.
Innovation Solution
A system of electronically controllable storage receptacles with a control unit that receives identifying information for recipients, generates access information, and provides secure access using PINs, barcodes, or QR codes, eliminating the need for physical keys and improving delivery and retrieval processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical keys are used to access storage units, then access control is provided, but security risks increase due to key loss, theft, and easy duplication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical key-based access control with electronic access methods including PIN codes, barcodes, and QR codes. The control unit electronically authenticates users and actuates locks via electronic signals, eliminating physical keys and their associated security vulnerabilities while maintaining reliable access control.
2Reliability
If physical keys are tracked and inventoried, then access control is maintained, but system complexity increases due to key management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces physical key inventory and tracking with an electronic database that stores access credentials and monitors usage. The control unit automatically manages authentication, granting or denying access based on electronic verification, thereby eliminating the administrative burden of physical key management while maintaining secure access control.
3Productivity
If delivery agents physically deliver items to recipients, then delivery is completed, but time and resources are wasted due to failed attempts and multiple retries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary storage system consisting of electronically controlled lockers positioned at convenient locations. Delivery agents deposit items in these lockers, and recipients retrieve them using electronic access credentials. This intermediary system eliminates the need for direct hand-to-hand delivery, allowing both parties to complete the transaction at their convenience and reducing failed delivery attempts.
4Ease of operation
If recipients travel to delivery services to retrieve items, then item retrieval is enabled, but convenience decreases due to waiting in line and counter service requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables recipients to independently retrieve items from electronically controlled lockers using personal access credentials such as PINs, barcodes, or QR codes. The automated authentication and lock actuation eliminate the need for counter service and staff assistance, allowing recipients to access their items at any time without waiting in lines, thereby significantly improving convenience and reducing time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices and methods for storage, delivery, receipt, and/or other handling of an item in an electronically controllable storage receptacle are disclosed. The disclosure provides features for keyless access to the storage receptacle by use of user access information, such as a PIN or bar code. Further, features are disclosed for receiving and/or transmitting data related to the recipient and the item to facilitate the various handling actions of the item.