Method and system for securely receiving deliveries

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing prevalence of online shopping has led to package theft issues, as many deliveries are left unattended at homes, resulting in significant theft and inconvenience, with existing solutions failing to provide secure and convenient receipt options for recipients.

Innovation Solution

A receiving module system that allows secure package delivery without the recipient's presence, featuring a locking mechanism controlled by a security panel, which can be accessed via an identification code, keypad, or sensor technology, and can be installed on various surfaces, including garage doors and mailboxes, enabling secure and controlled access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If packages are left unattended outside the door for delivery, then delivery convenience is improved, but package security deteriorates leading to theft

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery convenienceVSAvoidpackage security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the delivery process into secure segments: the receiving module creates a protected receiving space within the secured space, separating the package from public access while maintaining delivery convenience. The locking mechanism segments access control into authorized (recipient, delivery personnel) and unauthorized (thieves) categories.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving module acts as an intermediary device between the delivery personnel and the recipient's secured space. It provides a controlled interface that allows package transfer without requiring the recipient to be physically present, thus maintaining both convenience and security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a signature is required for delivery, then package security is improved, but delivery speed and convenience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackage securityVSAvoiddelivery delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary security setup by installing the receiving module with locking mechanism and security panel before delivery occurs. The recipient pre-configures access codes, so when the package arrives, security is already in place without requiring signature verification at the moment of delivery, thus eliminating delivery delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving module provides self-service security functionality through the security panel that can be operated by delivery personnel without requiring the recipient's physical presence or signature. The system autonomously verifies authorization codes and controls the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for time-consuming signature verification while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a secured receiving module is installed, then package security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackage securityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving module is designed as a universal, multi-functional device that integrates package receiving, secure storage, access control, and notification capabilities in a single unit. This consolidates multiple security functions into one device, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive security features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through the security panel and notification system that provide real-time status information about package receipt and access events. This automated feedback loop simplifies monitoring and management compared to complex manual security systems, as the module self-reporting reduces the need for additional monitoring equipment or personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10878647B2Method and system for securely receiving deliveries
Publication Date: 2020.12.29 KANE JACQUELINE
  • US10878647B2 patent drawing
  • US10878647B2 patent drawing
  • US10878647B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method for receiving packages through the mail when a person is not home. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a system for a person to facilitate safe and secure delivery to a receiving module without needing to be present. In some aspects, an administrator may control the module from a portable smart device or other wireless device. The receiving module may be operated digitally, manually, virtually, or combinations thereof. The settings of the receiving module may be controlled by a recipient, delivery service, sender, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the receiving module may be installable on a garage door.