Trapped Hinge Rod Assembly for Pry-Resistant Package Delivery Box
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increase in package theft due to home delivery services, particularly in rural residential locations, necessitates a more secure delivery solution, especially for controlled substances.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered security box apparatus with a hinged door assembly featuring a welded, trapped hinge design that minimizes mechanical leverage, making it difficult for thieves to pry open, combined with a solar panel for energy independence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional door hinge design is used, then the door can be easily opened and closed, but it provides mechanical leverage that thieves can use to pry open the door
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional hinge mechanism entirely and replaces it with a rod assembly that extends through the door and frame. The rod is secured with set screws that trap the door panel, eliminating the pivot point that provides mechanical leverage for prying. This extraction of the traditional hinge component directly resolves the contradiction by maintaining door operation while removing the vulnerability to prying attacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces set screws as intermediary elements that secure the rod assembly to the door frame and door panel. These set screws act as mediators that provide a secure attachment mechanism without creating a traditional hinge pivot point. The set screws trap the rod and door panel in position, allowing operation while preventing the mechanical leverage that would enable prying.
2Strength
If the door and hinge rod are securely affixed to prevent prying, then security is improved, but the door becomes difficult to open and close
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the rod assembly can rotate within its secured position. The set screws secure the rod to the frame and door panel, but the rod itself is free to rotate, enabling the door to open and close. This dynamic design maintains the security of the affixed connection while allowing operational movement, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the door assembly into distinct components: the door panel, the rod assembly, and the set screw fastening system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the set screws provide secure attachment for anti-prying strength, while the rod assembly provides the rotational movement for door operation. The segmented design resolves the contradiction by distributing functions to different components.
3Strength
If a recessed door mounting frame is used, then leverage points are reduced for prying, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the door mounting frame with the rod assembly by extending the rod through both the door panel and the frame. This merging eliminates the need for separate hinge brackets and mounting hardware, simplifying the overall manufacturing process. The recessed frame design is integrated with the rod passage, reducing the number of discrete components and assembly steps while maintaining the anti-prying leverage reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
A security package delivery system is provide having at least one wall, a door frame and a door. The door frame is affixed to the at least one wall having a circumferential frame with a door mounting frame inset into a recess relative to a front surface of the door frame. The door has a hinge rod extending through the door frame affixed at each end within a receiving bore of the frame. A method is also provided.