Mobile Guardian Device for Secure Parcel Delivery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing parcel delivery systems are cumbersome and costly due to the need for fixed, heavy locker systems that require complex technical and mechanical equipment for secure delivery, limiting flexibility in space and time.

Innovation Solution

A mobile guardian device equipped with wireless communication capabilities detects and registers items, activates protection status, and enables authorized removal through authentication signals, allowing secure and flexible delivery to various locations, including public areas accessible by both automated and human delivery methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fixed locker systems are used for secure parcel delivery, then parcel security is improved, but device weight and transport difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparcel securityVSAvoidlocker system weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static locker system into a dynamic mobile guardian device that can be positioned at various delivery locations. The guardian device moves with the delivery vehicle and provides secure zones on-demand, eliminating the need for fixed heavy infrastructure while maintaining security through mobile presence and monitoring capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical locker structure with an electronic/software-based security system. The guardian device uses software algorithms, communication protocols, and electronic monitoring to provide security functions, substituting heavy mechanical lockers with lightweight electronic systems that achieve the same security objectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If fixed locker systems are deployed, then parcel protection is improved, but system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparcel protectionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The guardian device is designed as a multi-functional system that performs parcel security, delivery coordination, recipient communication, and location tracking all through a single integrated platform. This universal device replaces multiple specialized systems (lockers, cameras, communication systems) with one versatile unit, reducing overall system complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The guardian device operates autonomously, making security decisions and coordinating deliveries without constant human intervention. The system self-manages parcel registration, security monitoring, and release authorization, reducing the operational complexity and infrastructure support needed compared to manual locker systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If mobile guardian devices are used, then delivery flexibility is improved, but security measures must be simplified

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery flexibilityVSAvoidsecurity measures complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex physical security measures with software-based authentication and monitoring. The guardian device uses electronic verification, communication protocols, and digital authorization to provide security, eliminating the need for heavy mechanical lockers and complex physical security infrastructure while maintaining protective capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10664788B2Ad-hoc parcel delivery drop zone and hotspot
Publication Date: 2020.05.26 MAPLEBEAR INC
  • US10664788B2 patent drawing
  • US10664788B2 patent drawing
  • US10664788B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the present invention provide an approach for delivering an item to a target recipient. A mobile guardian device at a first location comprises a wireless communication system. The guardian device is further protected against unauthorized removal from the first location. An item that is delivered to a second location within a communication reach of the guardian device is detected the item by the guardian device. The item is registered with the guardian device, activating an item protection status in which an unauthorized removal of the item from the second location is detected. An authorized removal of the item from the second location is enabled in response to a communication between the guardian device and a removal authentication device.