Parcel Box Multi-Point Locking Against Forced Opening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel box locking devices, particularly those with mechanical linkages, are inadequate for larger designs as they can be easily forced open, compromising security against theft and vandalism, and require complex adjustments for different sizes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-point locking system with a latch having a row of slots and hooks, which engages automatically for secure closure, and a controller-actuated drive for secure operation, allowing for variable installation without individual adjustments, and incorporating a timer for automatic relocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a central mechanical lock with linkage is used, then the locking device can be operated centrally, but the door can be easily pried open in the middle with a crowbar
Solution Approach 1:
The locking latch is divided into multiple independent locking elements (first locking element at the top, second locking element at the bottom, and intermediate locking elements) that engage with corresponding receptacles distributed along the door height. This segmentation prevents forced opening by distributing the locking force across multiple points rather than a single central point, making it impossible to pry the door open at any intermediate location.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a single-point central lock to a multi-point distributed locking system along the vertical dimension of the door. The locking elements are positioned at different heights (top, bottom, and intermediate positions) to create a three-dimensional locking distribution, preventing leverage attacks that work on single-point locks.
2Reliability
If a locking device with upper and lower locking positions is used, then some protection is provided, but larger parcel boxes cannot be adequately secured against theft and vandalism
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed with a scalable architecture where the number of locking elements can be adjusted based on door height. The receptacles are distributed along the door at predetermined distances, allowing the same basic locking mechanism design to be applied to parcel boxes of various sizes by simply changing the number of locking elements engaged, not the fundamental design.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system allows variation in the number of intermediate locking elements engaged based on the door height and security requirements. The receptacles are positioned at predetermined distances that can be adjusted, and the control can selectively engage different numbers of locking elements to optimize both security and adaptability for different parcel box configurations.
3Reliability
If multiple locking positions are provided above the parcel box, then security is improved, but the locking device requires complex adjustments for different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacles are pre-positioned along the door at predetermined distances during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field adjustments. The locking elements are designed to automatically engage with these pre-positioned receptacles, and the control system is pre-programmed with the receptacle positions, allowing the locking device to be installed without complex adjustments for different parcel box sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system automatically adapts to different door heights by using the control device to selectively engage the appropriate number of locking elements based on the detected door configuration. The system self-adjusts without requiring manual intervention or complex mechanical adjustments, reducing installation complexity while maintaining multiple locking positions for security.
Data Source
AI summary
Parcel box for receiving delivery items or the like with a box which is provided with a front opening which can be closed via a door, with a locking device being provided between the door and the box, with which the door can be locked and selectively unlocked by different users with an electric sensor and a controller being provided for a respective actuation of the locking device by a deliverer and user, and with the locking device having a latch with a plurality of slots or elongated holes arranged at a distance from one another across the height of the door, into which a plurality of corresponding arranged hook engage in the closed state.