Secure Parcel Receptacle With Auto-Locking Multi-Delivery Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing delivery receptacles lack a secure and user-friendly mechanism to manage single and multiple deliveries while preventing unauthorized access and theft.
Innovation Solution
A delivery receptacle with a locking mechanism that allows for single or multiple delivery modes, featuring a code-operated device, key lock, and override lock, which automatically locks the lid after delivery insertion, and can be secured to the floor to prevent theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unauthorized access, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a code-operated device for unlocking, an automatic locking mechanism that engages when the lid is closed, and a floor anchoring system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving high security without requiring a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism automatically engages when the lid is closed, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The system serves itself by detecting the lid's closed position and automatically activating the lock, thereby providing robust security while maintaining operational simplicity for the user.
2Reliability
If automatic locking is implemented after delivery insertion, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary unlocking action through the code-operated device before the delivery insertion occurs. The code is entered in advance to prepare the locking mechanism for automatic engagement, ensuring that when the lid is closed, the lock is already positioned to engage immediately, thus maintaining both security and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism automatically detects when the lid is closed and engages the lock without requiring any additional manual intervention. This self-service capability ensures that security is automatically enforced while the user's interaction remains simple: enter code, close lid, and the system handles the rest.
3Reliability
If floor anchoring is added to prevent theft, then security is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The floor anchoring system is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then integrated with the main receptacle body. This segmentation allows manufacturers to produce the anchoring elements using standard fabrication processes and then assemble them during final assembly, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving enhanced security and theft prevention.
Data Source
AI summary
A delivery receptacle for receiving objects (such as parcels, mail or other deliveries) deposited into the receptacle at residences or other building and locations, and securing the objects within the receptacle from unauthorized access. The receptacle has an input opening and a lid which can be moved between an open position which provides access to the input opening and a closed position which covers the input opening. The receptacle has a locking mechanism which may configured for any one of a plurality of operating modes, including a single-delivery mode which does not require an access code to the lid automatically locks after the delivery and a multi-delivery mode which requires the entry of a security code into a code-operated device to unlock the lid, open the lid, place the delivery into the receptacle, and close the lid which automatically locks closed.