Mixed set of letter boxes and parcels and method for delivering parcels at such a mixed set
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing need for more numerous and larger parcel boxes due to e-commerce, combined with the desire for technologically simple, secure, and user-friendly delivery solutions, is not adequately addressed by existing mechanical, electronic, or digital lock systems.
Innovation Solution
A mixed system of mailboxes and parcel boxes with separate compartments, featuring mechanical and electromechanical locks, a key box for key storage, and a human-machine interface for command and control, along with a module for overall access control and selective power supply, allowing for flexible and secure parcel delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If more numerous and larger parcel boxes are installed to meet e-commerce delivery needs, then the capacity and versatility of the delivery system is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling mailbox doors to serve dual purposes: traditional mail delivery and parcel reception. The system allows mailboxes to be temporarily converted into parcel boxes through a control unit that can lock mailbox doors and provide access codes to recipients, eliminating the need for separate dedicated parcel boxes for every location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts mailbox functionality based on delivery needs. The control unit can selectively lock mailbox doors and generate temporary access codes when parcel delivery is required, allowing the same physical infrastructure to flexibly switch between mail and parcel reception modes without permanent structural changes.
2Extent of automation
If technologically sophisticated electronic solutions are implemented for managing parcel boxes, then automation and efficiency are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic parcel box management systems with a simplified approach using existing mailbox infrastructure. Instead of implementing sophisticated electronic locks and monitoring systems dedicated to parcels, the system uses the existing mailbox electronic control unit to manage both mail and parcel access through a unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: managing traditional mail delivery, handling parcel deliveries, generating access codes, and locking/unlocking doors. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate electronic systems for different delivery types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If shared parcel boxes are made available for temporary allocation, then the adaptability and resource utilization are improved, but the security and access control complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the control unit monitors which mailboxes are assigned as parcel boxes and manages access codes accordingly. The system tracks code usage and can invalidate codes after delivery confirmation or after a set time period, ensuring that temporary access rights are properly managed and revoked.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the delivery person, the recipient, and the mailbox/parcel box system. It generates and manages access codes, validates deliveries, and coordinates between different users without requiring direct physical key exchanges or complex manual authorization procedures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing buildings are renovated to include more parcel boxes, then the adaptability to modern delivery needs is improved, but the installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of existing mailbox infrastructure for parcel delivery without permanent physical modifications. The control unit can programmatically assign different mailboxes as parcel boxes based on delivery needs, allowing flexible adaptation to changing requirements without construction work.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables existing mailboxes to serve dual purposes as both traditional mail receptacles and parcel boxes through software control. This eliminates the need for separate parcel box installations in existing buildings, as the same physical infrastructure can be dynamically assigned for different delivery types.
Data Source
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Figure 1C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mixed set (1) of mailboxes (2) and parcel box(es) (3, 3', 3") comprising at least a plurality of mailboxes (2) and at least two parcel box(es) (3, 3', 3") shared and temporarily assignable.This mixed assembly (1) is characterized in that it comprises a key box (6) for the return and storage of the key(s) of the parcel box(es) (3, 3', 3"), this box (6) having an access door (6') equipped with an electric lock with a control element (7), in that each of the locks of the doors (4) of the mailboxes (2) is mechanically operable, but also electrically at least on opening by means of a respective control element (8), and in that said mixed assembly (1) further comprises a module (1') for global access control and selective power supply of the mixed-operated locks of the mailboxes (2) and of the electric lock of the key box(es) (6), the control elements (7 and 8) being advantageously of the contact or pressure type.