Abstract: A food depositing system for the benefit of customers and food shops includes a first electronic device. The first electronic device includes a processor and programs stored in a memory. The processor causes the display of an interactive depositing interface during a food depositing operation, the deposited food items being input as deposited items. Identity and certain features of a depositing customer are also obtained during the depositing operation and an association is made accordingly and stored to await the customer's takeback of food deposited.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and techniques for mitigating retail theft include securing items at a receptacle of a retailer via an electronic lock, and providing a transceiver that is proximate to the secured items and that transmits a beacon which may be detected by a personal electronic device (PED) of a customer. Based on a wireless transmission between the PED and the transceiver, a customer's identity may be determined and the customer's risk profile may be accessed. A risk score corresponding to the customer accessing the secured item may be determined based on the customer's risk profile and optionally based upon a profile of the secured item. If the risk score is indicative of an acceptable risk, a trigger to remotely unlock the electronic lock may be sent, thereby remotely and automatically allowing qualified customers to access secured items. An item's removal may be detected and tracked.

Abstract: This invention provides a support platform for securing the base of a mailbox to a post or other horizontal support member. More particularly, the invention is directed to a mailbox and a support for a base of a mailbox in which the mailbox is able to pivot from a substantially horizontal position to an inclined position.

Abstract: A package delivery system wherein packages are distributed through a distribution center's deliverymen. Badges are worn by the deliverymen. The badges include an electronic identifier identifying the deliveryman as well as the company/distribution center, that employs them. On approaching the building's receptacle, the signal from the badge allows the receptacle's locking mechanism to be functional; thereby allowing only authorized deliverymen to gain access to the interior of the receptacle.

Abstract: The postal delivery notification system is an instrument that is configured for use with a mailbox. The postal delivery notification system is a sensor that monitors the contents of the mailbox. Specifically, the postal delivery notification system comprises a control system and a sensor. The sensor detects when a parcel is placed into or removed from the mailbox. The sensor is attached to the control system such that the control system receives a signal from the sensor that indicates that the parcel has been placed into or removed from the mailbox. The control system responds to the receipt of the signal by sending a first message to an appropriate authority indicating the introduction or removal of the parcel from the mailbox.

Abstract: A reception box includes: a casing; a first door that is provided in the casing, and is opened and closed by a sender; a second door that is provided in the casing, and is opened and closed by a receiver; and a loading platform that is provided inside the casing with at least the first door in a closed state. The loading platform includes a first bed portion on the first door side, a second bed portion on the opposite side of the first bed portion, and a rotation shaft provided between the first bed portion and the second bed portion. The first bed portion moves up and the second bed portion moves down when a parcel is placed on the loading platform. The first door is locked when the first door is closed with the parcel placed on the loading platform.

Abstract: A device for detecting adverse events in a fire hydrant, the device comprising a housing configured to mount to an exterior of the fire hydrant, the housing having a surface in register with the exterior of the fire hydrant, the surface having an aperture therein, a cover enclosing the housing and mounted to the fire hydrant at the surface. The housing further includes a controller, a transceiver, and a water sensor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multifunctional postbox having a light-emitting diode display unit that is capable of displaying various pieces of information by driving a light-emitting diode using power acquired from a solar cell module. More particularly, the present invention relates to a multifunctional postbox comprising: a solar cell module arranged at an outer surface of a main body of the postbox, which collects solar heat and generates an electrical energy; a battery arranged in an internal space of the postbox for storing the electrical energy generated by the solar cell module; and an address display panel arranged at an outer surface of the main body of the postbox, which displays address information by driving a light-emitting diode.

Abstract: A personalized mailbox flag system for displaying a sports team logo or other design such as a seasonal symbol or religious symbol. A mailbox sleeve is mounted over an existing mailbox. A decorative component is disposed on the mailbox sleeve. A decorative component is also disposed on the flag, which can pivot about the mailbox sleeve. Disposed on the free end of the flag is a décor mount, which displays a decorative component. The décor mount can pivot so as to orient the decorative component such that onlookers can read it.

Abstract: A system for indicating a contents change and transmitting a related wireless signal, the signal including a movement detecting and signal transmitting member for mounting on or proximate to the object whose movement is to be detected, a signal receiving and alarm generating member for receiving a signal from the movement detecting and signal transmitting member and producing a response, a remote control for actuating and deactuating the signal receiving and transmission generating member, an environmental monitoring member for sensing an environmental condition inside the mailbox and providing a signal to the signal receiving member, a visual information gathering member for gathering visual information and location identifying data and providing a signal to the receiving and signal interpreting member, an output member for receiving a signal from the signal receiving and generating member and generating a selected output, and components for delivering an object movement data notification to remote recipient

Abstract: The invention is an improved mailbox in which a sectional roll-up type door, in addition to enhancing the aesthetic appeal, facilitates access to the mail box contents, can be used in a weather-resistant way at the side or rear to avoid standing in traffic, and can also be used as a platform for insulation, solar collection, displays, lighting and various types of sensing of conditions at the interior of the mailbox such as the presence or absence of mail. The sectional door moves along parallel tracks that are mounted in the interior of the box.

Abstract: A manipulation detection system for removable insertable cash cartridges in automated banking machines is described, wherein the cash cartridge has a lockable cash dispensing/deposit opening for disbursing money and/or depositing money in the operating position of the cash cartridge, wherein the cash dispensing/deposit opening is opened automatically when the cash cartridge is inserted into the automated banking machine even before said cassette reaches its operating position, wherein when the cash dispensing/deposit opening is opened, a manipulation alert is generated at the cash cartridge by means of a sensor.

Abstract: The rotating mailbox device is provided in varying degrees of complexity, with each embodiment thereof focused on as basic a design as is possible while still retaining the important features of the device. Even the most basic design provides illuminated address, illumination strips within the mailbox assembly, and exterior indicators for indicating mail received via sensing of door opening. Of importance is that the basic design of the device dictates that the dished tray is rotateably affixed directly atop the post and may also be affixed off-center regarding the tray. The direct post-to-tray attachment negates the need for further attachment devices such as horizontal arms, for example. Lateral attachment of the mailbox assembly to the platform elevated section provides for easiest disassembly of part of the device and also for the elevated section to be a floor for the mailbox assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a depository (10) that can receive deposit containers (20) from persons authorized to open a door lock (24). The depository includes a depository head (12) and a chest (14). A security curtain assembly (36) is movable by an actuator to block the deposit entry opening into the chest. The security curtain assembly comprises a plurality of movable plate members (52, 54, 56). At least one processor is in operative connection with sensors that can sense conditions which correspond to an attack on the depository. The at least one processor causes the actuator to close the security curtain assembly in response to a sensed attack. The processor can also cause alarms to be activated.

Abstract: The invention provides a closures (106) for a compartment (100) having one or more walls (112, 114, 116, 118) and an opening (110) defined by at least one of the walls (112, 114, 116, 118). The closure (106) is associated with at least one fastener located inside the compartment (100). The fastener can hold the closure (106) in a first position (eg. closed) relative to the opening (110). The fastener is adapted to cause the closure (106) to assume a second position (eg. open) relative to the opening (110) upon receipt of a suitable signal. The closure (106) has at least on indicium (108) visible from outside the compartment (110). The indicium (108) is adapted to provide a visual indication of a status of the closure (106) or the compartment (110), such as closure open, closure closed, compartment empty, compartment occupied.

Abstract: A mail box flag assembly for use on common mail boxes having a hinged front door in front. The flag assembly mounts on the front of the hinged front mail box door consisting of a detachable flag (that can be customized to provide house numbers, or themed logos). The flag is attached to a rotating arm that rests on a raised slotted bracket when not in use. When in use (indicating mail is contained in the mailbox for delivery by the postal carrier) the arm is rotated on a rod outward (perpendicular to the mail box door) slides downward until it fits into a raised slotted bracket that holds the flag arm in place so a postal carrier can see the extended flag and know that mail is contained in the mail box for delivery.

Abstract: Apparatus that includes alarms with indicators to prevent burglary and theft includes a depository (10) operative to receive deposit containers (20) from authorized persons who open a lock (24). The apparatus includes a depository head (12) and a chest (14). A security curtain assembly (36) comprising a plurality of movable plate members is operative to selectively block an opening in the top of the chest that communicates with the head in response to an actuator. The actuator operates responsive to at least one circuit to cause the security curtain to close responsive to sensing conditions that may correspond to an attack through one or more sensors. Alarms are given locally or remotely when the at least one circuit senses conditions that may correspond to an attack.

Abstract: A mail box flag assembly for use on common domed mail boxes having a hinged front door in front. The means for mounting the flag will consist of adhesive or nuts and bolts. The flag assembly mounts on the front of the hinged front mail box door consisting of a detachable flag (that can be customized to provide house numbers, or themed logos). The flag is attached to a rotating arm that rests on a raised slotted bracket when not in use. When in use (indicating mail is contained in the mailbox for delivery by the postal carrier) the arm is rotated on a rod outward (perpendicular to the mail box door) slides downward until it fits into a raised slotted bracket that holds the flag arm in place so a postal carrier can see the extended flag and know that mail is contained in the mail box for delivery.

Abstract: A wireless outdoor mailbox actuating system preferable includes a lockable outdoor mailbox having a housing, a plurality of operating components dynamically attached to the housing and a mechanism for synchronously toggling the operating components between first and second associated positions respectively. The front door of the mailbox has an elongated slot that is large enough to receive for example, a DVD and a collection of mail. A remote controller is communicatively linked to a receiver and to a main controller to remotely activate the front door actuating mechanism, tray displacing mechanism and flag raising mechanism, respectively. Selected ones of such mechanisms may be synchronously linked together to allow a user to retrieve mailbox contents without the need to reach into the mailbox. The system additionally provides an effective and secure means of preventing unauthorized access to private mail inside the mailbox.

Abstract: A receptacle for secure mail and parcel receipt and storage. The receptacle includes a top which provides a roof for the receptacle, a base, and a housing connected to the top and the base. The housing includes an upper compartment into which mail is first placed, a lower compartment into which mail is deposited from the upper compartment, a front door, located on a front of the receptacle, which is opened to provide access to the upper compartment and through which mail is placed into the upper compartment, a trap door, operatively connected to the front door, in the upper compartment, and an access door that includes a lock. The trap door rests in an open position when the front door is closed, allowing communication between the upper and lower compartments. The trap door is moved to a closed position by the opening of the front door, thereby preventing access to the lower compartment from the upper compartment.

Abstract: A mailbox delivery indicator assembly is provided comprising a flag connected to a rod member, the rod member connected to a spring, the spring connected to a mailbox connection member, and a retention assembly in communication with the rod member. A method of using a mailbox delivery indicator assembly is also provided.

Abstract: There is provided a collecting container. An exemplary collecting container comprises an insertion opening on the front of the collecting container that is adapted to receive objects. The exemplary collecting container additionally comprises a receiving device arranged to receive the objects and to convey them to a storage space in the collecting container, the storage space containing a filling-level measuring means that is connected to a blocking device preventing the receiving device from being opened when a defined filling level has been reached in the storage space, the receiving device comprising a roller shutter box whose receiving area is formed by at least two side walls and a bottom. The exemplary collecting container further comprises a roller shutter that is adapted to be moved in rails on the side walls, the blocking device being configured so that it can block the movement of the roller shutter.

Abstract: The invention provides a closure (106) for a compartment (100) having one or more walls (112, 114, 116 and 118) and an opening (110) defined by at least one of the walls (112, 114, 116 and 118). The closure (106) is associated with at least one fastener located inside the compartment (100). The fastener can hold the closure (106) in a first position (e.g. closed) relative to the opening (110). The fastener is adapted to cause the closure (106) to assume a second position (e.g. open) relative to the opening (110) upon receipt of a suitable signal. The closure (106) has at least on indicium (108) visible from outside the compartment (110). The indicium (108) is adapted to provide a visual indication of a status of the closure (106) or the compartment (110), such as closure open, closure closed, compartment empty, compartment occupied.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a secure mailbox having at least an upper compartment with a plurality of sides, a front mailbox door hinge-ably coupled to a front edge of a side of the upper compartment, a locking and unlocking mechanism being adapted to lock the front mailbox door to the upper compartment and an unlocking activation mechanism coupled to the locking and unlocking mechanism; an upper rear mailbox door hinge-ably coupled to a rear edge of a side of the upper compartment, a locking and unlocking mechanism being adapted to lock the rear mailbox door to the upper compartment and an unlocking activation mechanism coupled to the locking and unlocking mechanism and a lower compartment having a lower, rear mailbox door hinge-ably coupled to a rear edge of a side of the lower compartment, at least one trap door being located between the upper compartment and lower compartment.

Abstract: A simple crime prevention alarm device for the windows of dwelling houses or the like. The alarm device can be simply and easily attached to and placed on various kinds of objects, such as windows or the like, to prevent crime. The manufacturing cost and the attachment cost are reduced, and further provide a simple alarm device which can be used as an urgent call means.

Abstract: An indicator apparatus for a receptacle comprises a first indicator and a second indicator, the first indicator and the second indicator mounted to the receptacle in an adjacent relationship. Each one of the indicators is rotatable between an up position and a down position. At least one of the indicators comprises urging element for urging one or both of the indicators between the respective positions.

Abstract: An emergency signal apparatus for alerting police, medical service, neighbors and people passing by to emergency situations that may arise in or at a residence. The apparatus is designed for mounting on an upright post or column such as is commonly used for supporting rural mailboxes and includes a flashing strobe light and a siren which can be activated by operation of a manual switch in the residence or by operating a remote switch by a radio frequency emitter. The signal apparatus preferably includes illuminated house numbers, chimes within the residence and automatic dialing of the 911 emergency telephone number with a prerecorded message giving name, telephone number and address.

Abstract: A mailbox kit 10 which may be utilized to selectively create several different types of mailbox assemblies, such as an assembly which may be selectively locked and which may be selectively accessed from several different directions. In one non-limiting embodiment, the created mail box configuration may be closely, and operatively stacked in an overall aesthetically pleasing manner and provide remote notification functionality upon receipt of a letter and/or other item.

Abstract: The invention relates to a universal delivery and collection box unit (UDCBU). In one implementation, a UDCBU includes a mail compartment (110/120) accessible by one door (210) and a storage compartment (130) accessible by a second door (220). The mail compartment allows the postal service to deliver and pickup mail. The storage compartment allows both the postal service and authorized delivery services to deliver larger parcels. In this implementation, information would be recorded regarding access to this storage compartment and transmitted electronically to a consumer.

Abstract: A device for providing a positive indication that the door of a rural-type mailbox has been opened includes an elongate indicator strip with a first end and a second end, formed of a flexible, shape-retentive material with a spring bias toward a curved rest configuration. The indicator strip is connected at its first end to a mailbox such that the curved strip extends outward from the mailbox when in rest configuration, and may be flattened against the mailbox with the second end of the indicator confined between the sidewall of the mailbox and the lip of the closure door to hold the indicator against the mailbox in a cocked position. When the mailbox door is opened the second end of the indicator is released to assume its outwardly extending rest position and provide a visual indication that the mailbox has been opened.

Abstract: A smart mailbox having a receptacle with a front panel door and a postal slot comprising; means for detecting receipt of a mail; an indicator connected to said detector for indicating receipt of a mail, and; means for electronically locking the mailbox thus providing a secure and smart mailbox. The means for detecting includes motion detectors or weight detectors or both and indicator includes a local and a remote indicator. Further said means for electronically locking may be an electromagnetically operated lock and a keypad. In addition the keypad may include a remote keypad for remote operations of the remote keypad and the remote indicator the mailbox provides a transceiver.

Abstract: A package receptacle system including a container having an interior storage compartment, a lower floor within the container for supporting a package placed in the compartment, and sidewalls extending upward from the floor to define an access to the compartment. An upper lid is pivotally attached to the container for closing the access when in a closed position. A feature hangs from the lid for inhibiting rain from entering the compartment when the lid is in a non-closed position. Raised features are present on the floor of the container for supporting a package placed within the compartment above any moisture that might be present on the floor. A feature is included for indicating a recipient's address, and/or a package within the compartment ready for pickup, and/or receipt of a package within the compartment from a delivery service.

Abstract: A mail sensor system that includes a sensor located in a mailbox that is sensitive to weight and which generates a signal when mail is placed in the mailbox. The system further includes a receiver located in a car that generates a signal upon receipt of a signal from the sensor in the mailbox. A companion sensor can be located in a house associated with the mailbox.

Abstract: A mailbox signal flag mounting apparatus includes a stem having a mounting aperture, a detachable stop tab attached to said stem, and a detachable bushing attached to said stem. A replacement mailbox signal flag includes a stem having a mounting aperture, a detachable stop tab attached to said stem, a detachable bushing attached to said stem, and a flag portion attached to the distal end of said stem in relation to the mounting aperture.

Abstract: A signal is provided for a plastic mailbox which is pivotally secured to one of its side wall structures for raising from a lowered position to a releasably detented raised position. A frusto-conical shaft on the lower end of the signal engages a conical bore in a connected between laterally spaced inner and outer walls. A depression or pocket is provided on the inside of the side wall structure at the signal pivot for receiving a head of a fastener and a releasable detent is provided for releasably maintaining the signal in its raised position.

Abstract: A system attachable to a mailbox for notifying a user when mail has arrived includes a housing securable to a support stand. The preferred embodiment includes opposed doors connected to each end of the housing and an identifying mechanism for determining when the mail has arrived. Such a mechanism includes a detector with a sensor and a light assembly. The detector sends a signal to the light assembly for activating a LED. The present invention further includes a remote mechanism for transmitting a signal when the identifying mechanism is activated. Such a remote mechanism includes a mobile transceiver and a stationary transceiver coupled to the detector and the light assembly. Power supply sources are coupled to the identifying and remote mechanisms. In an alternate embodiment, one of the doors can be become stationary for receiving the identifying and remote mechanisms thereat.

Abstract: Under the present invention, a mailbox is equipped with a RFID reader. The RFID reader receives a continuously transmitted signal from an RFID tag that contains an RF identifier. Upon receipt, the RFID reader compares the RF identifier in the signal to an RF identifier assigned to the mailbox. If a match is established, the mailbox is unlocked and access is permitted.

Abstract: A flag system for use with a mailbox utilizes an elongated body having two opposite ends and which defines a recess which opens out of one end thereof. In addition, a flag member is slidably received by the recess of the body for movement between a retracted position at which the flag member is substantially withdrawn into the recess and an extended position. A channel which is defined in the recess cooperates with the flag member to guide the flag member between the retracted and extended positions.

Abstract: A mailbox contains a UV lamp to produce UV and ozone. The lamp is activated when the mailbox door is closed to destroy biological materials in the mail box.

Abstract: A normal four sided drop box 10 is provided with with new panels 12 which are made from translucent material replacing the standard solid metal or aluminum side, front and rear panels currently employed. The panels are placed on the sides, rear and front of the drop box or receptacle. At least one internal light source 20 (LED, Incandescent, etc.) is placed inside the box to be visible through the translucent material applied in place of the solid metal covering. A consumer thus sees the illuminated panels from the outside of the drop box or receptacle. But the internal components 30 are unseen and hidden from view. In one embodiment the companies or individuals message, logo, script, 22 is backlit by the internal light source 20 makes the message visible at night. A power source battery 50 is preferably powered by solar panel 40.

Abstract: A mailbox includes a box having a box wall with a panel opening, the panel opening being fitted with a translucent panel marked with indicia; an electric power source; a light source secured relative to the box and positioned to radiate light from within the box through the translucent panel to enhance visibility of the indicia; and a light source circuit electrically interconnecting the power source and the light source.

Abstract: A rural type mailbox having transparent windows formed through the front and rear thereof, a slidable transparent window, which allows the user to open the window to access the interior from the side of the mailbox to remove or enter mail when desired. The mailbox further includes a mail-in-box indicator LED to let the user know when mail has arrived, the LEDs illuminate inside the mailbox to enabling a user to see inside the mailbox at night using a remote control. The mailbox includes a solar panel for housing rechargeable batteries.

Abstract: A mailbox apparatus includes a flag support assembly being mounted to a mailbox assembly and a housing attached to the mailbox. Aflag support arm is movably disposed in the housing. A spring member biases the flag support arm. A flag member is pivotally attached to the housing such that it contacts the flag support arm. A mail delivery signaling assembly including a switch member being disposed in the housing and being in contactable relationship to the flag support arm, and also including a light-emitting member being connected to the switch member with wires, and further including a pressure sensitive sensor being disposed in the box and being connected to the light-emitting member, and also including a power source being connected to the switch member, to the light-emitting member, and to the pressure sensitive sensor.

Abstract: A system, method, apparatus, and computer program code for notifying at least one entity upon receipt of an item is provided. According to embodiments of the present invention, a determination is made whether an item has been placed in a repository. This determination may be made using any of a number of different types and combinations of sensors. An identification of at least one entity to be notified is then made, and the entity is notified if a determination is made that an item has been placed in the repository.

Abstract: An indicator flag for attachment to a mailbox for indicating the presence of mail therein uses a generally horizontally disposed flag member that is rotatably attached to the door of the mailbox and that rotates between a first position wherein the flag member is generally flush against the mailbox door, indicating an absence of mail for pickup, and a second position wherein the flag member extends generally horizontally outwardly from the door, indicating the presence of mail therein for pickup. A mail carrier can easily rotate the flag member back to the first position with the same motion used to open the mailbox door.

Abstract: A specialized receptacle accommodates secure delivery of mail and small packages. The receptacle has a loading door hinged on the receptacle structure. The loading door has a main section and a secondary section that telescopes out of the main section as the loading door is opened. The telescoping section supports packages as they are delivered and prevents unauthorized access to the storage compartment of the receptacle.

Abstract: An illuminating mailbox address indication device includes a generally rectangular shaped housing mounted on a top portion of a mailbox. Enclosed within the housing is a light means powered by a set of batteries which are rechargeably energized by a solar cell mounted upon the housing. A photosensitive cell operates a switch to permit the light means to illuminate when a pre-determined threshold has been exceeded relevant to the amount of ambient light present around the mailbox. The housing walls are translucent and further include indica stenciled thereupon which represent the address of the property associated with the mailbox.

Abstract: The status of deposits or withdrawals of items in a receptacle is indicated to one or more users having access to the receptacle. A receptacle is accessible by at least one user and is capable of containing an item. A deposit/withdrawal sensor for sensing a deposit or withdrawal of an item in the receptacle is also provided. A user identifier for identifying a user having access to the receptacle during the deposit or withdrawal of the item sensed by the deposit/withdrawal sensor is employed by the system. One or more indicators that are responsive to the deposit/withdrawal sensor and the user identifier are provided to indicate a deposit or withdrawal of the item in the receptacle by the identified user. The indicators may be placed on the receptacle or may be located remote from the receptacle.

Abstract: A mailbox system is provided including a housing including a chamber with a door allowing access to the chamber; and a rotatable guide assembly including a shaft rotatably mounted in the housing and a plurality of plates extending radially from the shaft, wherein the guide assembly is adapted to rotate upon the movement of the door for transferring mail into the chamber.

Abstract: A new remote mail delivery indicator system for signaling to the user when the mail is delivered by utilizing an led display or speaker producing a distinct intermittent sound. The remote mail delivery indicator system includes a pressure sensitive transmitter positioned on the cornice of the floor of a mailbox, whereby when mail is inserted the mailbox the pressure sensitive transmitter transmits a signal which is detected by an electronic receiver which signals the user.