Pivoting Package Receptacle Chute for Theft Prevention in Garage Doors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The growing problem of package theft due to unsecured delivery locations, where packages are left accessible to unauthorized individuals, necessitates a simple and cost-effective solution for secure delivery and receipt.
Innovation Solution
A unitary package receptacle chute integrated into a vertical structure, such as a garage door, that pivots open to receive packages from outside and slides them securely inside, using a foldable design with a front panel and floor panel connected at an obtuse angle, and includes optional features like a locking mechanism and hinged attachment for secure access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If packages are delivered at unsecured locations like front porches, then delivery convenience is improved, but package security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secure receptacle as an intermediary between the delivery location and the recipient's interior space. This receptacle receives packages from outside and transfers them securely inside, preventing unauthorized access while maintaining delivery convenience. The receptacle acts as a mediator that resolves the conflict between accessible delivery and secure storage.
2Reliability
If large obtrusive drop off boxes are installed, then package security is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the receptacle aesthetically pleasing in its closed state (when not in use) while maintaining functional security features. The exterior panel can be designed to match the building's architecture, and the receptacle only opens locally at the delivery aperture, preserving overall aesthetic appearance while providing secure package storage.
3Ease of operation
If the chute pivots open to receive packages, then ease of delivery is improved, but access security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamics by implementing a pivoting panel that can open for delivery and close for security. The panel dynamically transitions between open and closed states based on delivery needs. When closed, the panel blocks access to the interior; when opened, it allows package insertion. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between ease of delivery and access security.
4Reliability
If the floor panel is raised to block entry, then access security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the receptacle into separate functional panels: the pivoting panel for delivery access and the floor panel for interior blocking. Each panel operates independently - the pivoting panel opens for delivery while the floor panel raises to block interior access. This segmentation allows both security functions to operate simultaneously without interfering with each other's ease of operation.
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 chute effectively prevents package theft by keeping deliveries secure and out of sight within the garage, allowing easy access for delivery personnel while maintaining security until the intended recipient retrieves the package.
Implementation Method 1
the front panel is pushed back toward the garage door to move the parcel to the inside of the garage whereupon it slides down the angled floor panel of the device to drop inside the garage
Data Source
AI summary
A unitary package receptacle chute for disposition within a wall or door wherein the chute includes a front panel foldably connected to a floor panel at an obtuse angle. The front panel and floor panel are further connected to one another by two opposing side panels, the panels being configured to form a pivoting package repository for receiving and transferring a package from one side of the wall or door to the other side. The invention also includes a kit and method for making the inventive chute.