Secure parcel delivery receptacle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current parcel delivery systems lack secure and verified methods for accepting and recording parcel deliveries, particularly in ensuring that only authorized individuals can access the parcels and providing proof of delivery.
Innovation Solution
A secure parcel delivery receptacle comprising a parcel receptacle, a locking cover that can be unlocked using a one-time code scanned from the parcel, and a camera that records images of the delivery process for verification, with the ability to transmit status messages and images wirelessly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented for parcel delivery, then security and authorized access are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with an electronic scanning and code verification system. The scanner reads a code from the parcel, which is then verified against a stored authorization code, eliminating the need for physical keys or manual locking mechanisms while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service delivery verification where the parcel itself contains the authorization code that the scanner automatically reads. This eliminates the need for human intervention or additional authentication steps, as the parcel provides its own verification credentials.
2Reliability
If proof of delivery recording is implemented through camera and scanning, then delivery verification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the scanner that reads the code, the camera that captures images, and the processor that verifies authorization all work together as one unified device. This merging reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning system serves multiple purposes: it verifies the authorization code, triggers the camera to capture images, and provides a timestamp for the delivery record. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while enhancing verification capabilities.
3Loss of information
If wireless transmission of status messages and images is implemented, then notification capability is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transmits data periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. Status messages and images are sent wirelessly only when delivery events occur or at scheduled intervals, reducing energy consumption compared to continuous transmission while maintaining effective notification capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The secure parcel delivery receptacle comprises a parcel receptacle, a locking cover, a scanner, and a camera. The parcel receptacle may accept a parcel for delivery. Access to the parcel receptacle may be via the locking cover which may be unlocked by the scanner. The camera may record one or more images as proof of delivery. The parcel receptacle may be a container into which the parcel may be placed. The parcel receptacle may have an access aperture through which the interior of the parcel receptacle may be accessed from the exterior of the parcel receptacle. In embodiments, the parcel receptacle may be a bag or a box.