Package receptacle having a locking mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Packages are often delivered when recipients are unavailable, leading to potential theft or damage due to unsecured delivery sites, as the precise delivery time is unknown, and packages may be left exposed to the elements.
Innovation Solution
A package receptacle with a moveable platform and a locking mechanism that can be remotely controlled via cellular, Bluetooth, or WiFi signals, equipped with a camera and antenna for secure access, along with optional features like insulation, solar charging, and support for unmanned aerial vehicles, to ensure secure storage and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If packages are left at the delivery site without secure storage, then delivery speed and convenience are improved, but package security and protection from theft or damage deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is segmented into two independent components: a mobile delivery unit for rapid package deposition and a stationary secure storage receptacle for protected holding. This allows the delivery process to be separated into delivery (fast) and storage (secure) functions, resolving the contradiction between speed and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure storage receptacle acts as an intermediary between the delivery driver and the final recipient. It receives packages from drivers without requiring recipient presence, then securely holds them until authorized retrieval, eliminating the security risk while maintaining delivery efficiency.
2Reliability
If a secure storage location with remote monitoring is used, then package security and protection are improved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates cameras and notification mechanisms that provide feedback about package deposition and retrieval. This allows remote monitoring and authorization without requiring complex continuous surveillance systems, achieving security through event-based feedback rather than constant monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle is designed to be self-sufficient with features like autonomous locking mechanisms, integrated camera systems, and remote notification capabilities. This reduces the need for external security infrastructure or manual monitoring, lowering overall system complexity while maintaining protection.
Data Source
AI summary
A package receptacle includes a storage box including a moveable platform configured to move within an inner compartment of the storage box. A door includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is releasable by a signal to open the door. An antenna is in communication with the storage box. The antenna is configured to deliver the signal to the locking mechanism of the door. The moveable platform is configured to move from an upper portion of the inner compartment of the storage box toward a lower portion of the inner compartment of the storage box.