Tethered Package-Receiving Container for Doorstep Theft Deterrence
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for secure package delivery, such as electronic controlled-access and package lockers, are either not widely adopted due to concerns about trust and convenience, or are bulky and aesthetically displeasing, failing to effectively deter theft and protect packages from environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
A package-receiving container with a receptacle, lid, and tether for temporary installation, equipped with electronic features like a camera, motion detector, and communication system, allowing secure access and notification, and featuring a collapsible design with cut-resistant fabric and locking mechanisms for secure and convenient package storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If package lockers or storage lockers are used for secure package delivery, then package security is improved, but the device becomes bulky and aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
The package receiving system is segmented into a portable container unit that can be detached and stored, separating the security function from permanent installation. The container itself is compact while providing adequate security through the tether mechanism and locking lid.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static permanent lockers to a dynamic portable container that can be moved, deployed temporarily, and stored when not in use. This allows the security solution to adapt to different locations and situations without requiring permanent bulky infrastructure.
2Reliability
If permanent storage lockers are installed for package receiving, then package security is improved, but installation complexity and aesthetic impact increase
Solution Approach 1:
The package receiving function is segmented from permanent building infrastructure into a standalone portable container. This eliminates the need for complex permanent installation while maintaining security through the container's self-contained design with tether and locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable container is designed to be self-deploying without requiring professional installation. The user simply needs to attach the tether to a door and place the container in position, eliminating complex installation procedures while providing adequate security.
3Ease of operation
If electronic controlled access is used for in-home delivery, then convenience is improved, but trust and security concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The portable container serves as an intermediary between the courier and the residence. The courier delivers to the container rather than requiring direct access to the home, maintaining convenience while eliminating security concerns about granting access to unknown individuals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of the secure receiving experience through electronic notifications and remote monitoring capabilities, allowing users to track deliveries and receive alerts without physically compromising security or trusting couriers with direct home access.
4Reliability
If remote receiving options like post office boxes are used, then package security is improved, but convenience and accessibility decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The solution moves from remote centralized receiving locations to a local dimension by placing the secure container at the user's own residence. This maintains security while dramatically improving convenience by eliminating the need to travel to remote locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable container enables users to receive packages at their own doorstep without requiring trips to remote locations. The container serves the user's needs directly at their residence, making the package receiving process as convenient as traditional doorstep delivery while maintaining security.
Data Source
AI summary
A package-receiving container includes: a receptacle portion; a lid portion coupled to the receptacle portion and configured to control access to a receptacle volume associated with the receptacle portion; and a tether coupled to the receptacle portion, the lid portion, or a combination thereof; wherein: the tether is configured to engage at least one of: a door and a door jamb; and the package-receiving container is configured to receive a package within the receptacle volume. The package-receiving container may further include electronics features for smart home integration.