Receptacle for receiving and securing packages and other items
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Solution Overview
Problem
Parcel delivery on residential porches is vulnerable to theft, with millions of packages being stolen annually, as existing security measures are often viewed as low priority by authorities but cause significant frustration for individuals.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle designed to securely receive and protect parcels, featuring a lockable enclosure with a pivoting lid, integrated camera, lighting, and wireless communication for theft detection and notification, which can be accessed via a coded mechanism or smart device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If packages are left on the front porch for delivery, then delivery convenience is improved, but package security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the delivery process into distinct phases: delivery placement, secure storage, and authorized retrieval. The receptacle provides a separate secure storage space that receives packages during delivery without requiring the recipient to be present, then maintains secure storage until authorized pickup, effectively separating the convenience of unattended delivery from the security of package protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle acts as an intermediary between the delivery courier and the recipient. It provides a secure intermediate storage location where packages can be placed during delivery without direct handoff to the recipient, yet remains protected until authorized retrieval. The lock mechanism and access control system serve as mediators that manage the transition of package custody without requiring the recipient to be physically present.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is added to secure the receptacle, then package security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle integrates multiple functions into a single device: secure storage, weather protection, access control, and notification systems. The lock mechanism is combined with wireless communication capabilities and camera systems that serve multiple purposes - both security and notification functions are integrated into the same access control system, reducing overall system complexity despite adding security features.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service capabilities through automated lock mechanisms that respond to coded access or wireless signals, eliminating the need for manual locking and monitoring. The integrated camera and notification systems automatically detect and respond to access attempts, providing security without requiring constant human intervention or complex manual operation.
3Reliability
If seams between panels are covered to prevent prying, then package security is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seam cover components are integrated directly into the panel structures themselves rather than being separate attachment pieces. The overlapping panel design merges the structural joints with the cover elements, so that the same components that provide structural integrity also serve as the security covers, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly steps for security covers.
Solution Approach 2:
The seam covers are strategically positioned only at critical locations where prying would be most effective, rather than covering the entire receptacle. The overlapping panel design provides localized coverage at joints and edges where security is most needed, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while providing targeted security enhancement.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of allowing access to a receptacle for securing a package includes: sensing an opening and closing of the lid; activating, in response to determining the lid is sufficiently closed, the lock mechanism to transition from the unlocked state to the locked state; scanning an email message in a user's email account to identify a reference or tracking number of a second package; parsing the email message to obtain a delivery code; receiving entry of the delivery code; activating the lock mechanism based on entry of the delivery code to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state; sensing a second opening and closing of the lid; activating the lock mechanism to transition from the unlocked state to the locked state; receiving information corresponding to entry of an access code; activating the lock mechanism to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state.