Parcel Storage Assembly with Remote Locking and UV Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel delivery systems lack secure and remote access mechanisms, as well as effective sterilization and temperature control for food deliveries, which can lead to unsecured packages and potential spoilage.
Innovation Solution
A parcel storage device with a hinged lid, a wireless locking unit that communicates with a personal electronic device for remote locking and unlocking, a magnetic lock, a surveillance camera for identity verification, and a UV light emitter for sterilization, along with a cooler for temperature control, allowing secure and sanitized storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a parcel lock box with keypad is used for secure delivery, then package security is improved, but remote access capability and sterilization functionality are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel storage device integrates multiple functions including wireless remote locking/unlocking via personal electronic device communication, UV light emitter for sterilization, cooler for temperature control, and surveillance camera for verification, transforming a simple lock box into a multi-functional smart storage system that addresses security, hygiene, and temperature control needs simultaneously
2Temperature
If a cooler is added for food delivery temperature control, then food freshness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler is integrated within the box structure as an embedded component, merging the temperature control function with the storage device rather than using a separate external cooling system, which reduces overall system complexity while maintaining food freshness capability
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a UV light emitter is added for sterilization, then bacterial contamination is reduced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UV light emitter operates periodically to sterilize parcels rather than continuously, activating when parcels are placed in or removed from the box, which reduces energy consumption while maintaining effective bacterial control through targeted sterilization cycles
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
Enables secure remote access and sterilization of parcels, ensuring the integrity and freshness of deliveries by allowing users to monitor and control access, and maintain appropriate temperatures for food items.
Implementation Method 1
A light emitter is coupled to the box to kill bacteria and sterilizing the parcel delivered by the parcel delivery person
Implementation Method 2
The locking unit includes a magnetic lock that engages the lid when the locking unit is turned on to inhibit the lid from being opened
Data Source
AI summary
A parcel storage assembly for remotely securing a parcel delivery includes a box that is positionable adjacent to an entry of a building to be accessible to a parcel delivery person. A lid is hingedly coupled to the box for opening and closing the box. A locking unit is coupled to the box and the locking unit engages the lid when the locking unit is turned on to inhibit the lid from is opened. The locking unit is in wireless communication with a personal electronic device to facilitate a user to remotely lock and unlock the box. A light emitter is coupled to the box to kill bacteria and sterilizing the parcel delivered by the parcel delivery person. A cooler is positionable within the box for receiving a food delivery positioned therein.