Parcel Box Locking Device with Solar-Powered Remote Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locking devices for parcel boxes are complex, limited in versatility, require frequent battery changes, and lack features for secure remote operation and user rights management, making them unsuitable for flexible and secure parcel delivery and storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a compact, rechargeable mechanism featuring a deadbolt and handle-blocker system, powered by solar panels and equipped with cellular data communication, allowing remote operation via mobile applications using RFID, NFC, or Bluetooth, and enabling user rights management through a software controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional locking devices are used for parcel boxes, then basic locking function is provided, but the device complexity increases and versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device integrates multiple functions into a single system: electronic locking mechanism, solar power generation, rechargeable battery storage, cellular communication, RFID/NFC authentication, and remote control capabilities. This multi-functional integration resolves the contradiction by providing versatile adaptability while maintaining a unified device structure rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate systems (mechanical lock, power supply, communication modules, authentication systems) into a single integrated locking device. The controller unit merges control of the locking mechanism, power management from solar panels and battery, and communication functions into one unified system, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing versatility.
2Use of energy by moving object
If rechargeable battery with solar panels is used, then energy independence is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panels mounted on the parcel box automatically generate electrical energy from sunlight, which is stored in the rechargeable battery. The system self-charges without external intervention, providing energy independence. The controller automatically manages power distribution between the solar panels, battery, and locking mechanism, resolving the contradiction by making the system self-sufficient while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual battery replacement (mechanical maintenance) with an automated rechargeable battery system powered by solar panels. This substitution eliminates the need for frequent human intervention to replace batteries, achieving energy independence while the electronic control system manages the complexity of the power generation and storage integration.
3Ease of operation
If remote operation capabilities are added, then convenience is improved, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller unit acts as an intermediary between the communication interfaces (cellular, RFID, NFC) and the locking mechanism. It receives authentication data from various sources, verifies credentials through cryptographic methods, and only activates the locking mechanism when authentication succeeds. This intermediary layer enables remote operation convenience while maintaining security reliability by mediating between external access requests and the actual locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors authentication status, locking state, and system security parameters. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically controls the locking mechanism - maintaining locked state during normal operation and only unlocking when proper authentication is received. This feedback loop ensures that remote operation convenience does not compromise security, as the system continuously monitors and responds to security conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a secure, flexible, and energy-independent locking system that allows remote operation and user access management, enhancing the security and convenience of parcel delivery and storage by eliminating the risk of accidental door opening.
Implementation Method 1
powered by solar panels
Implementation Method 2
A rack and pinion mechanism starts to drive the rack, deadbolt and the handle-blocker into opened position
Implementation Method 3
A handle opening torsion spring opens the handle, if the handle is not blocked by the handle-blocker
Implementation Method 4
allowing remote operation via mobile applications using RFID, NFC, or Bluetooth
Data Source
AI summary
Locking device is disclosed for parcel boxes or lockers. The device comprises a user operable handle and a lock mechanism comprising a motor to rotate a pinion to move a rack attached to a handle-blocker and to a deadbolt. The handle-blocker controls transition of the user operable handle between open and closed positions due to movement of the rack, and simultaneously the deadbolt is configured to move between locking and unlocking positions. In the closed position, the handle-blocker and the handle-body have a linear connection with each other and in open position this connection is lost. The handle may be activated by tapping the handle-cover, or by using an RFID, NFC or by mobile technologies. A method to operate opening and closing a parcel box locked with the locking device allows one or more users to access the parcel box via software application paired with the device.