Through-Door Package Delivery Assembly with Chute-Based Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Residential package deliveries often result in unsupervised packages being stolen due to the lack of secure delivery options, as existing solutions like monitored locations and postal boxes are inconvenient or too small for larger packages.
Innovation Solution
A through-door package delivery assembly comprising a mounting door, top wall, sidewalls, delivery door base, delivery door, and delivery chute, which allows packages to be delivered through the door while preventing unauthorized access by pivoting to block the delivery opening and using a chute to guide packages to a secure area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If packages are left unsupervised on a porch for delivery, then delivery convenience is improved, but package security deteriorates due to theft by porch pirates
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery assembly is divided into separate functional components: a mounting door structure, a delivery door mechanism, and a delivery chute system. This segmentation allows the package to be delivered through the door while maintaining security through the blocking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery chute serves as an intermediary element that transfers the package from the delivery opening to a secure storage area behind the mounting door. This mediator allows package transfer without requiring the door to be fully opened or the package to be exposed in an unsafe area.
2Reliability
If monitored locations are used for package delivery, then package security is improved, but delivery convenience deteriorates due to recipient inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly enables self-service package delivery where the recipient can independently access packages through the delivery door mechanism without requiring external monitoring or intervention. The blocking door and chute system allows autonomous package retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting door assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a barrier to prevent unauthorized access, provides a controlled delivery opening, guides packages through the chute, and offers secure storage space behind the door. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate monitored locations.
3Reliability
If postal boxes are used for package delivery, then package security is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because they are too small for larger packages
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery door is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing the assembly to dynamically adapt to different delivery scenarios. The door can block the opening when secure storage is needed and open to allow package insertion and retrieval, providing versatility for various package sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly utilizes the third dimension by creating a storage space behind the mounting door that extends into the building interior. This vertical/depth dimension provides significantly more storage capacity compared to traditional horizontal postal boxes, accommodating larger packages while maintaining security.
Data Source
AI summary
A through-door package delivery assembly is mountable in a garage door or other mounting door. A delivery door of the assembly is operably connected to an internal chute so that moving the delivery door to a delivery position moves the chute to obstruct access through the mounting door. When the delivery door returns to a blocking position, the chute angles downwardly to deposit a package on the floor inside the mounting door. The assembly is also able to be carried by a garage door when it opens without impeding operation thereof.