Multi-User Parcel Docking Station for Secure Drone Delivery

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Solution Overview

Problem

There are no effective systems for multi-user parcel delivery, holding, and return that leverage drone and autonomous mobile robot technologies, particularly for residential and commercial applications, addressing issues of range limitations and security in parcel transportation.

Innovation Solution

A multi-user drone docking station system, known as DRONEDEK, which includes features like temperature control, disinfection, communication, and security measures, along with a modular design for scalable deployment and integration with existing logistics systems, enabling secure and efficient delivery, holding, and return of parcels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional delivery methods are used, then delivery can be made to any location, but delivery cost and time increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedelivery efficiencyVSAvoiddelivery time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical delivery systems (trucks, bicycles, manual carrying) with autonomous mobile robots and drones that use advanced navigation, sensors, and propulsion systems. These robotic systems can autonomously navigate to delivery locations, transfer parcels to docking stations, and return for pickups, significantly reducing delivery time and operational costs while maintaining flexibility in delivery locations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If autonomous mobile robots and drones are used for delivery, then delivery speed and accuracy improve, but range limitations reduce effective delivery area

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedelivery speedVSAvoiddelivery range

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces docking stations as intermediary infrastructure between autonomous delivery vehicles and final delivery locations. These docking stations serve as relay points where robots and drones can deposit parcels, recharge, and exchange batteries. This intermediary system extends the effective delivery range by allowing vehicles to operate in shorter segments between docking stations, which are strategically placed throughout the delivery area to create a network that covers larger distances than a single vehicle could traverse alone.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If parcels are left at delivery locations, then delivery convenience improves, but theft and security risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedelivery convenienceVSAvoidtheft risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements docking stations with automated parcel transfer mechanisms that enable self-service delivery and pickup. Parcels are automatically transferred from delivery vehicles to secure compartments within the docking station without human intervention. The system provides automated notifications to recipients, secure access control, and tracking capabilities. This self-service approach maintains convenience for users while eliminating the security vulnerabilities associated with leaving parcels unattended in traditional delivery locations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple users share a delivery location, then resource utilization improves, but parcel management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-user capabilityVSAvoidparcel management complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the docking station into multiple independently managed compartments or zones, each associated with specific users or user groups. The system segments parcel management by implementing individual access controls, tracking systems, and notification mechanisms for each user. This segmentation allows multiple users to share the same docking station infrastructure while maintaining simple, individualized parcel management experiences. Each user can access only their assigned compartments through authenticated interfaces, eliminating the complexity of managing shared access to all parcels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12591840B2Device and system for an autonomous mobile robot, drone, and/or courier to deliver, hold, protect, and return parcels for multi-users in both residential and commercial applications

Publication Date: 2026.03.31 OTOOLE DANIEL S

AI summary

A device and system for an automatic robot, drone, and/or courier to deliver, hold, protect, and return parcels. The multi-user system has DRONEDEK docking features and include a small footprint combination; nine to 400 parcel capacity; has a multi-belt conveyor and turntables for parcels; uses omni-directional and cross roller turns; is compatible with re-usable packaging; has a parcel tilt and reload for return packages; utilizes a lightweight frame; has secure outer skin and access panels for maintenance; communicates and is controlled by DRONEDEK docking station; can use robotic unload/pick and place, multiple delivery/receiving, and can attach to other third-party parcel systems. A multi-user box is quite simply a unit with the functionality of one or more DRONEDEK docking stations and features numerous/multiple pigeonholes and container spaces for safe, secure storage of items to separate and distinct users in a bulk location.