Garage Door Receiving Module for Secure Package Delivery

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing trend of online shopping has led to package theft issues, as many deliveries are left unattended at homes, causing inconvenience and discouraging consumers from shopping online due to the risk of stolen packages, especially when recipients are not present to sign for them.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for secure package receipt using a garage panel or entry door with an integrated receiving module, featuring a security panel and locking mechanism that allows controlled access through a unique code, enabling secure delivery without the recipient's presence, and can be operated digitally or manually.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If packages are delivered outside the door unattended, then delivery convenience is improved, but package security deteriorates leading to theft

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery convenienceVSAvoidpackage theft
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the delivery space into secure (inside the module) and insecure (outside the door) zones by using a receiving module with a receiving opening. The module segments the delivery process into: placement in the opening, closure of the panel, locking, and later retrieval. This segmentation protects packages during the critical unattended period while maintaining convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving module acts as an intermediary between the delivery person and the recipient. It provides a controlled access point where packages can be deposited and stored securely without requiring the recipient to be present. The module mediates the transfer by using automated locking mechanisms and remote access capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If recipient presence is required for signature, then package security is improved, but delivery efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackage theft preventionVSAvoiddelivery efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary security actions by automatically locking the receiving panel after package deposition, before the recipient arrives. The locking mechanism is activated in advance, creating a secure environment without requiring the recipient's immediate presence. Remote notification systems also provide advance alerts to the recipient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving module provides self-service security features including automated locking, remote access control, and notification systems that operate without requiring the recipient's physical presence. The system serves itself by maintaining security through automated mechanisms while the recipient can access packages at their convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Object-affected harmful factors

If a secure receiving module is installed, then package security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackage theft protectionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges multiple security functions (locking mechanism, panel control, notification system) into a single integrated receiving module that can be installed at the door. By combining these functions into one unit, the system reduces overall complexity compared to having separate systems for each function while maintaining comprehensive security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving module is designed to perform multiple functions: secure storage, remote locking, automated access control, and notification. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices and simplifies the overall system architecture while providing comprehensive security and convenience features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11328545B2Method and system for securely receiving deliveries
Publication Date: 2022.05.10 KANE JACQUELINE
  • US11328545B2 patent drawing
  • US11328545B2 patent drawing
  • US11328545B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method for receiving packages through the mail when a person is not home. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a system for a person to facilitate safe and secure delivery to a receiving module without needing to be present. In some aspects, an administrator may control the module from a portable smart device or other wireless device. The receiving module may be operated digitally, manually, virtually, or combinations thereof. The settings of the receiving module may be controlled by a recipient, delivery service, sender, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the receiving module may be installable on a garage door.