DE60037029T2 - SAFE GOODS DEVICE AND METHOD - Google Patents

Description

These The invention relates to a device that ensures, for example Household or commercial buildings Items are delivered safely. The invention also relates a procedure that requires secure delivery of items and verification the delivery allows.

In In recent years, the delivery of items has been directly home or to the office increased by shipping order. The emergence of "e-commerce" using The Internet is the number of articles that are sent by postal services and private delivery companies will continue to increase. There These articles are often quite valuable, is a signature required by the customer before the articles are handed over by the supplier become. Therefore, the customer normally needs to be at home during working hours stay to receive the item. Generally reluctant It's clear to customers to sacrifice a salary or vacation to get the item you ordered, as this is the comfort shipping order and internet shopping effectively power.

Even, if a signature is not required, the articles are often too voluminous, around by a standard mailbox to fit, and have to Therefore, be picked up by a central post office, if no one is present when the article is delivered. The above Problems therefore represent a significant inhibition threshold for the increase of shipping orders and e-commerce.

US 5,223,829 is a locker device with a number of lockers, each locker having a content sensor to signal to a controller that a package is included in that locker and thus not available for selection by a user.

The The present invention seeks to overcome the above problems or at least alleviate it.

One The aspect of the present invention provides a device for the secure delivery of an article that has readable code, the device comprising: a box having a Door and Locking means for locking the door, an input device, who is able to allow a supplier to enter a delivery code, a controller to control access to the box in which a preprogrammed code is stored and that is able to to verify the delivery code with the preprogrammed code, thereby characterized in that it further comprises: an article code reader for reading of the article code and verifying the delivery of the article and a transmitter for sending the article code to a desired one Place after the door was locked.

According to one optional feature of this aspect of the invention, the Box further comprise a second door, the corresponding the first door can work. The box can be divided into two compartments, on the can be accessed through each of the first and second doors, each compartment being accessible through the respective door, ensuring the safe delivery of items on two separate occasions and / or from two different suppliers. Preferably the box is divided by an elastic and / or movable partition be so the size of each Fachs on the size of the article can be adjusted, which should be included therein.

According to one optional feature of this aspect of the present invention The box holder may be provided with locking means for the box opened again can be. Preferably, the locking means comprises a lock, that by means of a key, a combination, a bar code, a keypad or electronically actuated becomes.

According to one another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the box can be made of plastic material. Preferably, the box may be made of low density polyethylene be.

alternative the box can be made of metal. Preferably, the Box made of steel.

According to one more another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the box can be stackable.

alternative can a variety of boxes one piece getting produced.

According to one more another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention can be the box with a unique label for validation be provided for the delivery of the article. Preferably, the Label only be read after an article was placed in the box and the door of the box was closed.

More preferably, the label may be made illegible after the unique label has been read, and it may not be read again until the article is removed from the box from the box's holder, another one Article placed in the box and the box is closed.

According to one more another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the label may be a bar code, which by means of a Bar code reader is read, which is carried by the supplier. Preferably provided two bar codes, with the bar codes arranged are that a consecutive reading of the same only then is possible, after putting an article in the box and closing the door has been.

According to one another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the bar code reader may be able to date and / or to record the time of delivery.

alternative The label can be provided by means of funds belong to the box. Preferably, the providing means may comprise a printer, which prints the label on a sheet that the supplier keeps.

alternative For example, the provisioning means may comprise a screen comprising the Can provide label in the form of a readable alphanumeric code. Preferably, an algorithm may have the unique label for the output Encrypt on the screen. In particular, preferably, the algorithm may further include Time and / or date of delivery and / or a label that encrypted.

alternative the provisioning means may comprise a transmitter which is the unique one Label to a desired one Place sends when an item is delivered. Preferably, the Transmitting means comprise a radio transmitter. In particular preferably For example, the radio transmitter may be using a cellular telecommunication system operate.

According to one optional feature of this aspect of the present invention the unique label can only be sent after the Article placed in the box and the door of the box was closed. Preferably, sensors can be provided, which detect if an article in the Box is located and / or if the door of the box is closed.

According to one another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the supplier can use the delivery of the box verify a coded verification means. Preferably the coded verification means may further be for access to be used on the box.

According to one more another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the coded verification means the time and / or record the date of delivery. Preferably, the time is and / or the date of delivery is not recorded until the article placed in the box and the box was secured.

According to one another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the coded verification means may be a smart card bar code or an alphanumeric code. Preferably, the coded verification means comprise a smart card and a smart card reader can the Box assigned and preprogrammed with a verification code be, with the verification code to the supplier before delivery of the article is provided so that the box will be opened can. In particular, preferably, the verification code can be be unique label associated with the box.

According to one more another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the smart card may further store information the for the localization of the box are required. Preferably the smartcard contains the access codes and locations of a plurality of boxes.

According to one another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the smart card can magnetically store the verification code and the card is pulled through in the card reader to access to get on the box.

According to one more another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention, the smart card may use the verification code a radio signal to the card reader.

According to one Second aspect of the present invention is a method created for the secure and verifiable delivery of an article, characterized in that the article is a readable Code and the method comprises the steps of: (i) arranging an article in a box; (ii) an article code reader reads the article code to verify the delivery of the item; (iii) cause the door is locked; and (iv) sending the article code to a desired one Place for verification.

Preferably, the unique label is a bar code and the supplier can supply the delivery Using a bar code reader that also records the time and / or date of delivery. Alternatively, the unique label is a code that is stored by means associated with means associated with the box.

Preferably can the means associated with the box provide the label. Alternatively, the label can be sent to a desired location, after the delivery is done. In particular, preferably the provisioning means comprise a printer which applies the label prints a sheet that the supplier keeps. Alternatively, the providing means include a screen that holds the label in the form of a readable alphanumeric codes.

According to one optional feature of this aspect of the present invention The label can only be recorded after the article is secure was placed in the box.

According to one optional feature of the present invention includes the method following steps: a holder of the box or a third party provides a supplier with a verification code; the supplier locates the box, with a device associated with the box is, verify that the code in the coded verification means is stored, matches a code, which is stored in the verification device and previously from the holder of the box or the third party has been entered; the verification device allows the time and / or the date the delivery is recorded. Preferably, the verification device controls Furthermore, access to the box.

According to one optional feature of the invention, the supplier can use the verification code load into a codified verification means.

According to one another optional feature of the third aspect of the invention has the delivery company over the verification code in the form of a bar code or an alphanumeric Code.

According to one another optional feature of this aspect of the present invention Invention may be the coded verification means of the verification device be withheld until the article is placed in the box and the Box was secured.

in the Following are exemplary embodiments of the invention merely described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

1 a perspective view of a box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2 an exploded perspective view of a portion of the box 1 is;

3 a perspective view of a door of the box 1 is;

4 a perspective view of a portion of the interior of the box 1 is;

5 a perspective view of a box according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

6 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a plurality of boxes according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

7 a perspective view of a box according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

8th an exploded perspective view of a portion of the box 7 is;

9 a perspective view of a door of the box 7 is;

9A a view of a door projection 9 in the direction of the arrow X;

9B a view of a door projection 9 in the direction of the arrow Y;

10 a side view of a portion of the interior of the box 7 is;

11A and 11B are perspective views of a box according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, the door of which is respectively closed and open;

12 a schematic diagram of the electronic components is the function of the box 11 Taxes;

13A and 13B perspective views of a holder and a time-date plate for use with the box 1 . 5 or 6 are; and

14 is a procedural flow chart for the integrated payment and delivery system.

With reference to the drawings, there is a device for the secure delivery of articles shown a box 9 . 70 . 80 . 209 . 309 Includes a door 30 . 30a . 30b . 230 . 330 which can be opened by a supplier of the article when there is no article in the box, the door having been closed and having an article in the box, can only be reopened by a holder of the box the unwanted removal of the article therein after delivery is prevented.

In particular with reference to 1 is a box 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention, shown by means of the door 30 can be accessed. The door comprises a locking arrangement which in 2 and 3 shown in more detail. If an item (not shown) in the box on an elevated platform 50 is placed, the weight of the article presses the platform against the action of biasing means such as coil springs 55 on bars 54 are attached, down. In alternative classes of embodiments, other biasing means, such as leaf springs, may be used, and the number of biasing means may be adjusted as needed.

After the article in the box 9 was laid, the door becomes 30 closed. During the closing process, the platform becomes 50 by means of cam means, such as wedges 42 , raised. In alternative embodiments, the number of wedges may be changed or alternative means for lifting the platform 50 be used. The wedges are advantageously by means of fasteners 43 at the door 30 attached. To assist the lifting process, a section of the wedge of the platform 57 be profiled with the wedges 42 co. Consequently, a dowel sticks out 51 which is preferably on the side of the platform 50 is attached, over a catch 34 in this embodiment, on the inside of the door 30 as part of the projection 33 is appropriate.

At the time when the door 30 is completely closed, is the dowel pin 51 over a depression, through the detent 34 is formed. At the same time are the wedges 42 with the wells 58 aligned in the platform 50 are provided, and the platform 50 is lowered under the influence of the weight of the article arranged thereon.

A locking means, such as a key operated latch 11 standing at the side of the box 10 attached, prevents a lower section 35 the catch 33 that at the projection 31 of the box is pushed back and the door 30 is released. If an article is on the platform 50 The only way is the door 30 to open, in it, the lock 11 to unlock, causing the release pen 51 of the lower section 35 is solved. In alternative classes of embodiments, other known locking means, such as a combination lock or a pull-through card, may be used. Only the caste-holder (eg a household person or a commissioned company employee) has the key 15 or other means enabling the release of the locking means.

After the box holder the lock 11 has opened, the door can 30 be reared and the article from the platform 50 be taken. Consequently, the platform becomes 50 from the springs 55 pushed up and when the door is closed and there is no article on the base 50 is located, the dowel pin 51 advantageously detachable in the recess 36 one.

In a second embodiment, as in FIG 5 shown a second door 30b on the opposite side of a box 70 to a first door 30a is provided and is preferably provided with an identical locking arrangement, so that this after the door was closed and an article on the platform 50b was left only by the box holder to be reopened by the locking mechanism 11 is solved. If on the platform 50b no article was left, the door can 30b still open.

Between the first and second door 30a and 30b is preferably a partition 71 attached to divide the box into two separate compartments. In this embodiment, the partition wall 71 made of an elastic material that is attached in a concertina configuration. The partition 71 is advantageously attached to the top and bottom and is configured to flex in a single direction so that access around the side of the partition within the box is not possible. The divider wall is preferably extendable and / or movable so that the divider wall will be placed when a large article is placed in the box (ie, more than half the side of the box 70 ) wraps around the article and access to the article from the other tray is not possible. Of course, if a large article occupies all of the space within the box, then no second article can be made by means of the other of the first or second doors 30a and 30b be placed in the box. The partition is preferably made of a durable tear-resistant and cut-resistant material, such as Kevlar ^RTM or Safeknit ^RTM cloth, or a ribbed plastic or metal, This is essentially a manipulation to gain access to items that are on the opposite side of the dividing wall 71 are prevented.

With reference to the embodiment of the invention, which in 6 is shown is an assembly 80 shown a variety of individual box 9 or 70 includes for use in buildings with multiple apartments or office space for a variety of separate companies.

Every individual box 9 or 70 works in the same way as the box of the first or second embodiment, and is with one or more doors 30 . 30a . 30b that can be opened by a supplier when there is no item in the box. The box holder can open the box when an article is in it by holding the latch 11 unlocked. A partition 71 may be provided to each box in the same way as the box 5 to divide into two compartments.

In certain situations, it may be possible to provide fewer boxes than residents in a particular building by assigning the boxes daily or weekly, for example, when anticipating delivery of an item, thereby reducing the overall cost of the installation. The order 80 can from the boxes 9 or 70 can be formed, which are specifically designed to be stacked, or they can be made in one piece with a standard number of boxes.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the in 11A and 11B 2, at least two opposite upper and lower edges of the box are chamfered so that a connector can be mounted in the gap created when two or more boxes are stacked.

The boxes 9 . 70 . 80 of all three embodiments are preferably made of a sturdy, durable material to substantially prevent unauthorized persons from gaining access to articles located therein and to protect the articles from the elements if the boxes are outdoors be installed. Advantageously, the boxes may be made of metal, such as steel, or low density polyethylene meeting the above criteria. To further prevent the safety of the box from being compromised, the doors are part of the box 9 . 70 . 81 manufactured and meet the relevant safety standards. Means, such as screws (not shown) may be provided with the box to secure it to a solid object and substantially prevent its theft.

Every box, be it the single box 9 out 1 , the two-door box 70 out 5 or every individual box 9 out 6 is preferably associated with a unique tag, such as an alphanumeric code, a bar code, a magnetic stripe, or a form of microchip that can be interrogated by a corresponding reader to obtain the tag. In its simplest form, the label may be provided on an accessible portion of the box, however, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the label is in FIG 2 and 3 is shown in the form of a bar code 53 Mounted on a plate 52 can be attached.

If the supplier is the door 30 opens on use and an article on the platform 50 the supplier has no access to the bar code 53 , The weight of the article pushes the platform 50 on the springs 55 down, leaving the bar code 53 with an opening 14 that fits in the side of the box 10 is provided. However, until the door is closed, prevents a cover 16 that the supplier has the bar code 53 can read.

When closing the door 30 slides a cam follower 12 who is at the cover 16 is attached, a cam track 37 up. The cam track is preferably with the aid of a flat section 38 the train at the lead 31 attached. The sliding movement causes the cover 16 being lifted while in slits 17 is held. If the door 30 is completely closed, the cam follower preferably rests on the flat portion 38 the cam track. The cover 16 is thus above the opening 14 and the bar code that is now visible can be read by the supplier.

After the bar code has been read, the supplier presses a portion of the plunger 12 coming from the outer surface of the cover 16 protrudes, preferably to the right, causing it from the edge of the cam track 37 is pressed down. Between the slots 17 sufficient play can be provided for this to be achieved. At this time, the pestle falls 12 and the cover attached to it 16 down. The pestle 12 pushes a one-way stop 39 down and rest under it. After that, it is not possible to push the plunger on the lock 39 to raise over. When the door is opened, the hinge is 37 arranged so that it is movable to the plunger 12 to allow it to get past it, and the mechanism is set back.

If an article is on the platform 50 In order to further increase the safety of the bar code reading process, it is considered that a bar code is on the disk and the door is closed 52 and a second on the tab 31 is provided so that the two bar codes are aligned, the bar code reader being programmed to record a successful reading of the bar code only if both bar codes are aligned and read consecutively. This arrangement will be described in more detail below in the fourth embodiment, which is shown in FIG 7 to 10 is illustrated. Same numbers were used where possible for equal parts, with the prefix "2" added. Therefore, only the parts that differ will be described below.

With particular reference to 7 is a box 209 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, shown by means of the door 230 can be accessed. The door includes a latch assembly that is more detailed in FIG 8th . 9 . 9A . 9B and 10 is shown. If an article (not shown) on a raised platform 250 is placed in the box, the weight of the article pushes the platform against the action of biasing means, such as coil springs 255 on bars 254 are attached, down. In alternative classes of embodiments, other biasing means, such as leaf springs, may be used, and the number of biasing means may be adjusted as needed. It can be seen that in this embodiment only one side of the platform is raised to springs.

Once the article in the box 209 has been arranged, will be the door 230 closed. During the closing process, the dowel pin 251 which is preferably on the side of the platform 250 is fastened, lifted by means of cam means, such as a sloped flat portion 236 a rotatable catch 233 who are at a head start 231 is fixed, which is substantially perpendicular to an inside of the door 230 is attached (see 9 and 9B ). Alternative embodiments may use alternative means to the platform 250 to raise. As a result of this is the dowel pin 251 over the catch 233 lifted and falls when the door reaches a fully closed position, under the influence of the weight of the platform 250 article in a recessed section 240 down on the other side of the rotatable means 238 is provided.

A locking means, such as a key operated latch 211 at the side of the box 210 is fixed, is placed in the adjusted position, so that it is against the side 242 the detent pushes, and prevents the detent 233 is turned back and the door 230 is released. If an article is on the platform 250 The only way is the door 230 to open, in it, the lock 211 to unlock, thereby allowing the catch 233 viewed from the direction X is rotated in a counterclockwise direction, whereby the dowel pin 251 is released. In alternative classes of embodiments, other known locking means, such as a combination lock or a pull-through card, may be used. Only the caste-holder (eg a household person or a commissioned company employee) has the key 215 or other means enabling the release of the locking means.

If the box holder the lock 211 has opened, the door can 230 be reared and the article from the platform 250 be taken. Consequently, the platform becomes 250 from the spring (s) 255 pushed up. If the door 230 is closed and no article is based 250 is located, snaps the top of the catch 233 advantageously detachable in the dowel pin 251 one.

If the supplier is the door 230 opens on use and an article on the platform 250 The supplier can enter the bar codes 253a and 253b do not read consecutively and therefore do not record a successful delivery. The weight of the article pushes the platform 250 on the springs 255 down, leaving the bar code 253b with an opening 214 that fits in the side of the box 210 is provided. However, until the door is closed, the bar codes are not aligned for consecutive reading and a cover 26 prevents the supplier from displaying the bar code 253b can read.

With particular reference to 9B and 10 slides a cam follower 212 who is at the cover 216 is attached when closing the door 230 a cam track 237 up. The cam track is preferably on a plate 232 provided by means of turning means 238 on the opposite side of the projection 231 to the catch 233 is rotatably mounted. The sliding movement causes the cover 216 being raised while using the plate 217 and a tilted lead 218 is held in position. If the door 230 is completely closed, the cam follower locks 212 preferably in the raised trough section 219 the opening 213 one. The cover 216 is thus above the opening 214 kept and the bar codes 253a and 253b which are now visible and aligned, can now be read by the supplier in succession.

After the bar code has been read, the supplier lifts the section of the plunger 212 coming from the outer surface of the cover 216 protrudes, preferably on and moves it to the side, so that he in the lower rest position 222 falls. The plunger falls off the edge at the same time 244 the plate 232 down, which is substantially adjacent to the cover 216 is arranged when the door is closed. The rotational movement of the plate 232 allows the plunger 212 , under the edge 245 to take a rest position, preventing the cover from being raised and making further readings of the bar code until the mechanism is reset.

In summary, the above embodiment works as follows: if there is no article in the box 209 is the door 230 is closed and the cover 216 is only one section of the bar code 253a visible and a delivery can not be recorded. If an item has been placed in the box, the cover will obscure 216 After the supplier has read the bar code and the plunger 212 pressed to the right, beyond the bar code sections 253a . 253b , which can not be accessed again until the box holder opens the box and removes the article. In order for the supplier to verify that a delivery has been made to the box, an article must be in the box and the box must be closed thereafter with the article remaining therein.

In addition to providing secure delivery of items, a complete mail order or e-commerce delivery system may also be able to facilitate the secure collection of return items (eg, erroneously sent or defective items). For this purpose is the box 209 Advantageously, further provided with a second locking means, which in the fourth embodiment, a key operated lock 220 that includes along with the catch 221 is working. To leave an item for pickup, the box holder places the item in the box on the platform 250 , close the door 230 and locks the latch 220 However, he does not lock the latch 211 ,

To pick up the item, the picker (usually an employee of a delivery company) uses a master key (which can be used to access all of these boxes or a portion of these boxes, such as those associated with that supplier) to lock to unlock and thereby open the door to remove the article. If necessary, the bar code sections 253a . 253b be read before the box is removed to verify the pickup. It is understood that alternative second locking means, such as a keypad or smart card locking system, may be used.

It it is understood that the box of the fourth embodiment in the same way like the box of the second embodiment in alternative embodiments designed for it can be two subjects or in the same way as the boxes third embodiment in a stackable or in one piece Shape can be produced.

With reference to a fifth embodiment of the invention and as in 11A and 11B is an electronically controlled version of the box 309 illustrated. Same numbers were used where possible for equal parts, with the prefix "3" added. Therefore, only the parts that differ will be discussed below.

At the box 309 Preferably, an input means, an electronic locking means and a reading means are mounted. In this embodiment, the input means is from a numeric or alphanumeric keypad 362 provided, the electronic locking means is a solenoid or preferably a resiliently biased locking means, such as a spring latch 311 which cooperates with a detent (not shown), and the reading means is a bar code reader 361 which is installed in the box. An advantage of using the elastically biased latch is that no handle needs to be provided to access the box. In alternative embodiments, the bar code reader 361 and / or the keypad 362 be repositioned so that they can be at the door, for example 330 are fixed or read through there. The box is preferably further equipped with one or more Arti kelsensoren (for example, with infrared or optical sensors) 367 and a transceiver 363 Mistake. A controller 365 , a door position sensor 366 and a battery 364 are in 11A and 11B not shown, but in 12 illustrated schematically. The functions of the box are preferably by the controller 365 controlled, which may comprise logic circuits and / or one or more microprocessors. It is understood that in some cases either the bar code reader 361 or the keypad 362 provided.

To leave an article, the supplier can either choose a specific code from the supplier using the keypad 362 or he may enter a barcode printed on the package of the item or another printed bar code, pass in front of the bar code reader, causing the spring latch 311 is opened when the entered or read code (or part of the code) matches a pre-programmed code stored in the controller 365 is stored. The supplier then opens the door 330 Put the article in and close the door.

The presence of the item is determined by the sensor 367 detected, causing the sensor 367 is caused to the controller 365 to signal that an article in the box 309 was laid. When the door is closed, the controller signals 365 the lock 311 , the door 330 to lock. In alternative embodiments, a pressure sensitive field, the mechanical sensing means of the previous embodiments, or other suitable pressure sensing means may be the platform 350 replace and can the controller 365 signal when an article is on it.

If the bar code data of the article is available and has been read, the controller preferably directs to send data regarding the time and / or date of delivery, the identity of the article, the identity of the box and the identity of the supplier to a central database ( which is managed, for example, by the supplier or an independent company working for a number of suppliers) so that the delivery can be verified. If only one delivery company code has been entered, only the time and / or date of delivery can be transmitted with the delivery company code and the identity of the box. The transceiver used is preferably a radiotelephone. The data is preferably transmitted using the conventional mobile telephone network. The data may alternatively be sent via a standard fixed telephone system or other suitable communication network. This information is only sent when the door is open 330 closed and the package is safely in the box.

To take an article, the box holder gives after delivery his personal identification number (PIN) either by means of the keypad 362 or in the form of a bar code outputted together with the box. If this matches a number in the controller 365 is stored, the controller signals the spring lock 311 , the door 330 to unlock. Then the box holder removes the article and closes the door. The sensors 367 signal to the controller that the beams have not been broken and therefore the item has been removed. When the door is closed again, the door sensor sends 366 a signal to the controller 365 , which in turn is the lock 311 signals to lock the door, and advantageously data is transmitted to the central database indicating the date and / or time of removal of the article along with details of the article, if any, after the door has been closed.

As in the fourth embodiment, secure storage of return items is provided. The box holder enters a code indicating returns on the keypad, or preferably a specific return key is provided which can be pressed. The keeper then gives his PIN using the keypad 362 or a barcode reader 361 and scans the original delivery bar code, if available, all from the controller 365 is processed to unlock the lock 311 to signal and open the box. Alternatively, the box holder may scan a bar code that has been output along with the return item box. The box holder then places the return item in the box. The presence of the article is determined by the optical sensor 367 registered, which together with a signal from the door sensor, indicating that the door is closed, causes the controller, the spring latch 311 to signal the door lock and data using the transceiver 363 to send a message indicating that an item is ready for pickup.

When the pickup picks up the return item, he either gives it with the help of the keypad 362 or the bar code reader 361 a code that is specific to the company or the supplier, whereby the spring lock 311 is unlocked and the package can be removed. When the item is removed, it is taken from the sensor 367 a signal to the controller 365 sent together with a signal from the door sensor when the door is closed, the controller causes the lock 311 to signal to lock the door. Preferably, this also causes the controller, with the aid of the transceiver, to send data to the central database indicating, along with the identity of the box, the time and / or date of pickup and the identity of the pickup, that the item has been picked up, after the door is closed.

The cast also has the ability to leave items to be picked up by a third party (such as friends or business partners of the box keeper). In such situations, the box holder inputs a code that the box holder can program to open the box and places the item to be picked in the box. The same code will appear on it passed to the third party who enters the code to allow the item to be picked up.

Of the Box can also be set so that for a no deliveries are accepted for a certain period of time (eg when the box holder has ordered perishable goods but the goods can not pick up for a while) by passing a delay code over the Keypad is entered, the over the transceiver sent to the central database. There is a similar system to disposal, to redirect deliveries to an alternative box, if necessary.

Apart from the fact that the functions of the box directly over the keypad 362 or the bar code reader 361 instructions may be sent via the transceiver through the central database directly to the box using e-mail, a dedicated website or a mobile phone (using, for example, the short message service). Therefore, in certain circumstances, it may be desirable for each box to be assigned an IP (Internet Protocol) address and for communication to occur using TCP / IP.

Around To conserve battery power, the controller is programmed to the electronic components after a certain period of time of inactivity (eg two minutes) turns off. The system is turned on, as soon as another input is received. It will, however, be considered pulled that in some embodiments Mains power or alternative power sources, such as photovoltaic Solar cells, can be used.

Of the Box is also advantageously programmed to the database indicates when the battery is low, the box is manipulated or an error signal is detected. It can be one Signal sent from the database to the PIN numbers of the box holder to change, if this for operational reasons deemed necessary (eg if an invoice is not paid has been).

It is understood that the box of the fifth embodiment in alternative embodiments can be interpreted that in a similar way as in the Box of the second embodiment two subjects be provided or that it is similar to the boxes of the third embodiment in stackable or one-piece Mold is made.

In another variant of the electronically powered box, a display means, such as a liquid crystal display, is provided on the outside of the box, which is a replacement or security device for the data transceiver 363 can represent. The display receives signals from the controller such that when a package is dropped in the box and the door is closed, an algorithm executed in the controller outputs an alphanumeric code for use as a verification code for display on the LCD display. The algorithm preferably encrypts one or more of the bar codes of the packet, the unique box label, and / or the time or date of delivery. These may then be noted by the supplier, decrypted on return to the supply depot and used as a proof of delivery for a particular package in a particular box at a particular time or date. A similar algorithm can be used for all data sent via the transceiver 363 be transferred if increased safety is required. The LCD display may also be used to provide status information of the box, such as battery warnings, as well as instructions to users.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the electronics provided in the box are housed in an independent compartment, preferably in the base thereof, where they can not be damaged by articles placed in the box, and less for vandalism prone, as most evident in 11B is illustrated.

In order to verify delivery with the mechanical boxes of the first, second, third and fourth embodiments, the supplier preferably has means for reading the unique label, which in a preferred embodiment is a bar code reader (not shown) around the bar code 53 the first, second and third embodiment or aligned bar codes 253a . 253b of the fourth embodiment. Advantageously, the reader also records the time and / or date of delivery and may, for example, be integrated into a hand-held computer of the type already used by some suppliers, or it may be used with it. In alternative classes of embodiments, any other suitable form of manual or electronic reading means may be used.

In this way, if the caste-holder was to ask whether the article had actually been delivered, the delivery company would be able to indicate that the supplier had put an article in the cask at a certain time and / or date. The time and / or date of delivery may be stored in the reading means to be subsequently sent to the computer system of the delivery company. Advantageously, using, for example, a mobile telecommunication system, a delivery notification may be transmitted back to a central database (eg belonging to the delivery company or a third party) to provide "real-time tracking" of the article, in which case the time and / or time Date from the database can be recorded as soon as the notification is received.

To the Protection against fraudulent Suppliers can Be provided with funds that do not spend the verification, if not the correct article (by reading the bar code verified on the article provided in the box is left) safely housed in the box is. This can be achieved by using a bar code reader in the Box that only issues a verification, if a bar code provided on the article succeeds with the door closed was read. If such a verification system is used, It may be possible be the locking and verification procedures described above to renounce. It is also considered that this System for adapted the use with the electronic box of the fifth embodiment can be.

If the reader can not read the bar code on the first try, can Mechanism can be provided, which allows the door unlocked and the item is repositioned, leaving the bar code can be read on the article. The reader can be programmed to allowed a fixed number of repositioning attempts before the validation is considered failed. In In practice, such a safety device may be Not required as suppliers would soon be exposed if they repeatedly recorded shipments, but the recipients angäben, that a wrong article has been delivered.

An alternative method of verification would be to embed a microchip or transponder in a delivery notification or the like attached to the article, where the microchip or transponder could be interrogated by a device located in the box 9 . 70 is appropriate.

The most big Delivery companies today use bar code readers as a method to track package deliveries and therefore could easily adjust the reading of bar codes that go to the box in addition to the bar codes are provided on the articles. Smaller suppliers however, they often rely on one another on manual delivery logging procedures. In such situations can individual boxes the first three embodiments be provided with a verification device, the delivery an article expressing the time and / or date of delivery provide along with the box label. The supplier can then keep this expression as a proof of delivery.

13A and 13B show a suitable verification device 110 using a bracket 111 can be attached to the box. Out 13A it can be seen that the holder has a first elongated projection 113 that covers the top or side of the box 9 . 70 or 81 screwed. When removing the screws 114 can the device 110 from the lower part of the bracket 111 can be removed and batteries or a printer cartridge can be changed.

When Alternative to an expression of time and / or date and time Box labels may mean such as a radio transmitter, for example, known for Mobile telecommunication equipment is used, triggered for example, an office to signal a delivery company when the item has been delivered is to provide real-time tracking as described above.

With reference to 14 In another embodiment of the invention, the delivery method is integrated into the payment procedure for the ordered article. This is accomplished by providing the merchant (ie, the company delivering the item) with the unique label that is the box 150 is assigned (such as the bar code with the number 53 . 253a . 253b ) when the item is ordered. The label must have previously been associated with the credit or debit card details of the box holder, optionally together with personal information of the box holder, such as his or her name, the position of the box and the data stored in the database. The assignment can be made when an article is ordered for the first time.

The dealer preferably asks using a secure connection 152 the database that stores the required information. If the box is used only by a single supplier, this database can be managed by the supplier. Otherwise, for example, an independently managed database can be set up that can be accessed through a website. Alternatively, the label data may be integrated into a database with a known secure transaction system, such as "ProTx" or "WorldPay ^RTM, " which may be the In allow additional features to be introduced into the system, such as the ability to debit from alternative credit cards, if desired by a customer. Therefore, it is possible to debit the purchase of the item from the holder's credit card by only providing the label when ordering, for example, over the telephone or over the Internet, thereby increasing the security of the transaction. The dealer then hands over the label of the delivery company 154 which prefers to query the same database, but usually only needs the delivery address.

The person making the delivery at the delivery company is usually identified and the deliveries of the person are assigned for a given day. The individual therefore becomes a delivery address and a label 156 given along with the labels for the remaining deliveries of the day. The supplier then goes to the correct address, locates the box 158 , puts the article to be delivered in the box and records the time and date of delivery 160 which is returned to the supplier using one of the methods described above and stored for retrieval, should the delivery be queried. Optionally, the time and date of delivery to the dealer 162 be communicated to confirm that the delivery has taken place.

When Alternative to using a bar code method may be the supplier a coded verification means, such as a smartcard, be provided, which stores the required delivery data. The customer places an order with the delivery company, preferably the unique label which, for payment purposes, is in turn linked to the credit or debit card details of the customer can be compared, and a alphanumeric order reference, which for security reasons is at least four Numbers should be long, includes. The dealer processes the order and forwards the label and purchase reference number along with the ordered items to the delivery company. Advantageously, the unique label used as order reference, so the customer only have to specify a single number.

The Delivery company assigns a supplier and obtains the delivery address by querying the database of unique labels. The buy order reference is then loaded into the smart card that the supplier carries with him leads and preferably also data about the remaining supplies for this Day saves. Upon reaching the delivery address allows the Supplier that the smart card is from a verification device, such as a smart card reader associated with the box is, is read.

Claims (19)

Device for the secure delivery of an article having a readable code, the device comprising: a box ( 9 ; 70 ; 80 ; 209 ; 309 ), who has a door ( 30 ; 30a ; 30b ; 230 . 330 ) and locking means for locking the door, an input device ( 362 ) capable of allowing a supplier to input a delivery code, a controller for controlling access to the box in which a preprogrammed code is stored and capable of verifying the delivery code with the preprogrammed code, characterized in that it further comprises: an article code reader ( 361 ) for reading the article code ( 253 ) and verifying the delivery of the item and a sender ( 363 ) to send the article code to a desired location after the door has been locked. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller ( 365 ) further controls the locking means. Apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the controller ( 365 ) records the time and / or date of delivery after the article in the box ( 9 ) and the box ( 9 ) was locked. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transmitter ( 363 ) sends the date and / or time of delivery to a desired location. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the device further comprises a screen. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the delivery code from the transmitter ( 363 ) is sent with the article code. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a sensor ( 367 ) to detect the presence of an article in the box ( 9 ), this information being provided by the controller ( 365 ) and / or sent. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein an algorithm used in the controller ( 365 ), outputs an alphanumeric code to a screen that can be used as a verification code. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the algorithm is the article code, a unique box label ( 53 ) and / or the date and time of delivery. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the transmitter ( 363 ) comprises a radio transmitter. Apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the radio transmitter works using a cellphone telecommunication system. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an article detector for detecting the presence of an article in the box (Fig. 9 ; 70 ; 80 ; 209 ; 309 ) and for activating the locking means for locking the door ( 30 ; 30a ; 30b ; 230 . 330 ). The device of claim 12, wherein the article detector one or more sensors and a controller for controlling the Locking means comprises. Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the box further comprises a second door, the corresponding to the first door can work, the box is divided into two compartments, on the can be accessed through each of the first and second doors, each compartment being accessible through the respective door, ensuring the safe delivery of items on two separate occasions and / or from two different suppliers. Process for secure and verifiable delivery an article, characterized in that the article is a readable Code and the method comprises the steps of: (i) arranging an article in a box; (ii) an article code reader reads the article code to verify the delivery of the item; (iii) cause the door is locked; and (iv) sending the article code to a desired one Place for verification. Method of delivery of articles according to claim 15, further comprising between step (i) and (ii) the step of Enter a delivery code and compare the delivery code with a preprogrammed code used in a controller to control the Access to the box is included. The method of claim 15 or claim 16, which Further, the step of recording the time and the date includes after the article has been placed in the box and the box was locked. The method of claim 17, wherein the time and / or the date of delivery will be sent to a desired location. The method of any of claims 15 to 18, wherein the method one or more of the following steps comprises: (a) providing a unique label associated with the box for a delivery of the article; (b) placing the article in the box through the Suppliers; (c) detecting the presence of the article in the Box with the help of an article detector that causes the box is locked; (d) the delivery authenticates the unique one Label, which verifies that the supplier is recorded Time and / or the recorded date was present at the box, thereby in that the label is recorded after the Article was safely placed in the box and locked the door has been.