Vehicle Partition System for Secure Unattended Item Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods cannot deliver items to unattended vehicles securely, as accessing locked vehicles poses a risk to other items inside, and there is no standard way to facilitate item delivery without compromising vehicle security.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where vehicles are equipped with partitions that can be automatically deployed to section off compartments for delivery access, controlled by processors and communication components, allowing authorized users to remotely activate delivery mode and restrict access after delivery is complete.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a delivery service opens a locked vehicle trunk to deliver an item, then the item can be delivered to the vehicle, but the security of other items in the trunk is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle interior is divided into multiple compartments with selective access. A first compartment (trunk) is separated from a second compartment (cargo area accessible via rear door). The partition between them can be selectively opened to allow delivery to the second compartment without opening the locked first compartment, thus delivering items while maintaining security of other stored items.
Solution Approach 2:
A partition acts as an intermediary element between the locked trunk and the delivery area. The partition can be selectively opened to create a controlled access path for deliveries without requiring opening of the main locked trunk, serving as a mediator that enables delivery while preserving security.
2Reliability
If a person is present at the vehicle to authorize delivery, then secure delivery is possible, but unattended delivery becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The partition system is dynamically controllable through an electronic control system. The partition can be selectively opened or closed based on delivery mode (attended or unattended). In unattended mode, the system can automatically control the partition to open for delivery and then close, enabling versatile delivery options while maintaining security through automated dynamic adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition system serves multiple functions: it can remain closed for security, open for attended delivery with person present, or be automatically controlled for unattended delivery. This multi-functionality allows the same system to adapt to different delivery scenarios, making both attended and unattended delivery possible while maintaining security.
3Ease of operation
If the entire vehicle compartment is opened for delivery access, then item delivery is facilitated, but access to areas where access is not necessary is created
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is segmented into multiple access-controlled zones. The partition creates a boundary between the delivery-accessible second compartment and the restricted first compartment. Only the necessary area (second compartment) is opened for delivery, while other areas remain closed and secure, preventing unauthorized access to areas where access is not necessary.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for delivering items to unattended vehicles. In general, aspects of the invention facilitate controlled access to one or more portions of a vehicle for item deliver. A vehicle is configured with partitions. The partitions can be deployed to close off portions of the vehicle from an area used to accept a delivered item. Partitions may be automatically deployed when a delivery arrives (from a delivery person or robot) to section off a compartment of the vehicle to limit access to the sectioned compartment. Partitions can be re-configured to prevent external access to the sectioned off compartment after a delivery is completed.