Smart Delivery Receptacle Tamper Detection and Proof of Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Theft of unattended packages delivered at consumer residences and office buildings is a persistent issue, and existing delivery systems lack effective means to prove delivery at the intended address, making it difficult to file insurance claims or seek redress for lost or stolen packages.
Innovation Solution
A smart delivery receptacle equipped with RF wireless communication devices, scanners, and processors that transmit data on package delivery status, tampering, and unauthorized access, allowing for remote monitoring and alerting authorized parties, and providing proof of delivery records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locked delivery box is used, then package security is improved, but proof of delivery capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by capturing images of delivered packages, scanning their labels, and automatically transmitting delivery information via RF signals to a remote server. This creates a closed-loop system where the delivery status is automatically reported back to the sender and recipient, providing definitive proof of delivery without compromising the secure locked-box design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary RF communication system and server that mediates between the secure physical delivery box and the digital proof-of-delivery requirement. The intermediary captures and transmits delivery data without requiring physical access to the locked box, thus maintaining security while enabling proof of delivery.
2Loss of information
If a smart electronics assembly with scanners and RF transmitters is added to the delivery receptacle, then proof of delivery capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronics assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing package images, scanning labels, detecting tampering, and transmitting data via RF signals. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single integrated module, the system reduces overall complexity compared to having separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery receptacle performs delivery verification autonomously through its built-in scanner and RF transmitter that automatically detect package delivery, scan labels, capture images, and transmit proof of delivery information without human intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for external monitoring systems.
3Loss of information
If RF wireless communication devices are integrated into the receptacle, then remote monitoring capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RF communication system operates periodically rather than continuously, transmitting delivery status information only when a package is delivered or when tampering is detected. This periodic operation significantly reduces energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors (tamper detection, delivery confirmation) to trigger RF transmissions only when necessary. The RF communication is activated by events rather than operating continuously, optimizing energy usage while maintaining effective remote monitoring capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A smart delivery receptacle and related systems and techniques are disclosed. The disclosed receptacle may be configured to detect and securely report wirelessly on whether a package has been delivered thereto. Moreover, the disclosed receptacle may be configured to alert an owner or other authorized party if the receptacle has been compromised or a package has been removed without authorization. To such ends, the disclosed receptacle may include RF wireless communication device(s) configured to transmit RF signal(s) including data pertaining to various conditions to be monitored. Information from the RF signal(s) may be delivered through the internet to a server, which may be cloud-based in some instances, allowing for inter-networking of the system components and other elements as part of the internet of things (IOT). Mobile and other computing devices may access the information stored at the server to monitor the receptacle, as well as control overall system operation.