Letter Box Patents (Class 232/45)
  • Patent number: 6942141
    Abstract: Security apparatus (10) for the secure receipt and retention of articles (30) delivered thereto. The security apparatus (10) comprises a housing (12) having an upper chamber (14) and a lower chamber (16) separated from one another by a movable partition (15). The upper chamber (14) has an entrance opening (18) for the passage therethrough of a product (30) to be delivered to the apparatus (10) and a pivoted closure member (20) for said entrance opening (18). The movable partition (15) is slidable inwardly and outwardly of the apparatus (10) between respectively a closing position in which it separates the upper and lower chambers (14,16) from one another and an open position in which it permits inter-communication between the upper and lower chambers (14,16). Interaction means (25) are provided between the partition (15) and said closure member (20) whereby the closure member (20) can only be moved to open said entrance opening (18) when the partition (15) is in said closing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Warrant Trustees Limited References TC.0754
    Inventor: Nicholas Swift
  • Patent number: 6918534
    Abstract: A system and method for substantially eliminating the release of pathogen agents circulating in the air within a collection box. The mail deposit openings (12, 14) of a collection box mail chute (16) are adapted with gaskets (18, 20) to form an airtight seal when the mail chute (16) is opened and closed, thereby isolating the collection box interior (26). An alternative embodiment can further include a charging device (32) and a chargeable material (34) to attract and detain airborne and free pathogen particles that enter the mail chute passage (22) either by newly deposited mail pieces (38) or airborne pathogen particles that migrated from within the collection box collection area (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick J. Fitzgibbons, Christopher J. Tatar
  • Patent number: 6871779
    Abstract: A mailbox, particularly useful for rural mail delivery, comprises a housing having an inwardly opening access door for the depositing and withdrawal of mail, newspapers, and the like. The front wall of the housing comprises a bottom portion, two side edges, and an upper edge defining an opening through which mail and the like may be inserted and withdrawn. The top of the access door is hingedly connected to the housing at the upper part of the opening so that when closed the door covers the opening. When mail is inserted, the door is pushed upwardly and inwardly after which the door swings back to the closed position automatically under the force of gravity. The return swing to the closed position is aided by a weight attached to the inside of the door. The access door has a magnetic closure. The deposited mail rests on an open mesh panel having passages for water drainage. The mesh panel is positioned low enough to allow an accumulation of mail without interfering with the swing of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Leonard Frank Whitney, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6840438
    Abstract: A theft-preventative mailbox for holding various sizes of mail correspondence and mail parcels. The mailbox includes an elongate and internally hollowed body with a mail correspondence insertion slot at a generally upper end location. The body further includes a mail storage compartment, and the body is further fixedly anchored at a ground location so that at least a portion of the mail storage compartment extends below a surface of the ground location. An access door is defined within the body and permits the depositing of mail parcels into the storage compartment. A constriction skirt is secured to the interior of the mailbox body and includes a plurality of inwardly directed and pointed spear portions for permitting one-way depositing of mail correspondence and mail parcels. A mail retrieval mechanism acts in concert with the parcel access door to permit the retrieval of the mail correspondence and mail parcels deposited within the storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Shawky Hassan
  • Patent number: 6827255
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a security mailbox. The mailbox includes an inner and an outer sleeve which are slidably engaged with one another. Each sleeve has an alternating pattern of an opaque portion and a transparent portion. When the transparent portions are aligned with one another, the user is able to view the contents of the mailbox. The mailbox additionally includes a remote control for activating the power source, which slides the inner sleeve underlying the outer sleeve. In combination with a latch mechanism, this remote control also enables the user to open the mailbox door from a considerable distance away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventors: Mary E. Jenkins, Robert J. Jenkins, III
  • Patent number: 6811076
    Abstract: A rural mailbox having a housing with a generally rectangular base member, a roof section positioned over the base member, and side sections depending downwardly from the roof section into engagement with the base member. A back panel is secured to one end of the base member and roof and side sections to close that end of the housing. A door is pivotally mounted on the other end of the housing for rotative movement between an open position exposing the interior of the housing and a closed position isolating the interior of the housing. The door is formed of a clear polycarbonate resin with smooth surfaces providing a transparent door through which any contents of the housing may be viewed from anywhere within a reasonable distance prior to opening the door for retrieval of any such contents while yet providing a door which is tough, strong, shatter resistant, resistant to distortion or other damage from environmental factors, and capable of many years of service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Safety View, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas James Engberg
  • Publication number: 20040195304
    Abstract: A mailbox comprises a housing and a hinged door, a spring loaded locking mechanism is attached to the housing and the door, a delivered mail detection mechanism 22, and an outgoing mail indicator means operably cooperate with the locking mechanism to enable or disable the locking mechanism under appropriate conditions as described herein. The delivered mail detection mechanism includes an external mail present indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Paul D. Kujawa, Kevin R. Caple
  • Patent number: 6799716
    Abstract: A mailbox having a direct illumination lighting system in which light is directed downward so as to shine on an address plate or other sign is disclosed. The lighting system is powered by rechargeable batteries that are recharged by a solar energy system. The solar energy system collects solar energy and converts it into electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: World Factory, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory G. Kuelbs
  • Patent number: 6742703
    Abstract: A mail collection apparatus comprising a housing defining an access opening. An access door is supported by the housing. The access door is moveable between a door open position, providing access to the housing interior space through the access opening, and a door closed position blocking the access opening. A chute is supported by the housing. The chute comprises an inlet end defining a chute inlet opening adapted for receiving mail and a chute outlet end defining a chute outlet opening opposite the inlet end. A bag comprises an inlet portion defining a bag inlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Esakov, Charles Kannankeril, Lawrence J. Pillote, Atul Arora, William P. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6736310
    Abstract: A secured mailbox assembly for preventing the theft of mail placed inside a user's mailbox. The secured mailbox assembly includes an elongate base member being adapted to be partially disposed in a ground; and also includes a mailbox including a bracket being fastened with fasteners to the elongate base member, and also including a container being attached to the bracket, and further including a mail delivery door being hingedly attached to the container, and also including a mail retrieval door also being hingedly attached to the container, and further including a mail chute being attached to the mail delivery door; and further includes a lock mechanism for locking the mail receiving door to said container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Michael A. Mesol
  • Patent number: 6722561
    Abstract: A curbside mailbox wherein the outgoing mail compartment is located under the incoming mail compartment behind a single carrier service door. The incoming mail, when inserted, drops behind the outgoing mail compartment and falls into a deep mail storage area, to be retrieved by the owner through a locking rear access door. The rear access door retains a mechanical key lock and acts like a hasp fitting over a flange that is built into a upper rear wall. This feature allows the owner to double lock for added security or single lock placing a combination lock on the flange if the owner desires not to carry a key or give access to key for someone authorized to remove mail. The locking mailbox further includes a channel on top for a highly visible address display, a mounting channel on lower front to allow for quick and easy engagement, and a post cover assembly for safe and attractive installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventors: Eva M. Thomas, William J. Thomas
  • Patent number: 6719195
    Abstract: A security dropbox for receiving mail and like items includes an enclosure having walls. The enclosure walls include a front wall with an opening for receiving delivered items. A service door covers the opening on an exterior of the enclosure. The service door is pivotably attached to the front wall adjacent to a lower rim of the opening, and has an interior side facing the enclosure. A service bin is disposed on the interior side of the service door. The service bin is positioned to hold delivered items when the service door is open and to drop the delivered items when the service door is closed. A secure bin is disposed in the enclosure under the service bin. The secure bin is positioned to receive the delivered items dropped from the service bin. The service bin is made up of the interior side of the service door, a bin floor extending at an obtuse angle from the interior side of the service door, and bin sidewalls extending between adjacent edges of the service door and the bin floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Architectural Mailboxes, Inc.
    Inventor: Chris Farentinos
  • Patent number: 6715669
    Abstract: In the case of parcels delivered by an automatic delivery system, all tenants in an apartment, etc., agree to receive parcels by a box; however, in the case of registered mails, in particular, registered mails with cash, some tenants do not agree to receive these from a delivery box because of fear of theft, etc. The resulting problem is that the delivery box is not used for delivering registered mails. A delivery box capable of handling a registered mail is provided with: a memory 22 for preliminarily memorizing kinds of registered mails that are not accepted by receivers, with respect to each of the receivers; a barcode reader 12d for reading electronic information of a registered mail; a judgment device 21 for making a judgment as to whether or not the kind of the registered mail read by the electronic information reader is permitted by a destination receiver as an acceptable mail; and a device for opening a lid 13 of a registered mail locker when the registered mail has been judged as an acceptable mail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Fulltime System
    Inventor: Kouichiro Hara
  • Publication number: 20040026492
    Abstract: A security dropbox for receiving mail and like items includes an enclosure having walls. The enclosure walls include a front wall with an opening for receiving delivered items. A service door covers the opening on an exterior of the enclosure. The service door is pivotably attached to the front wall adjacent to a lower rim of the opening, and has an interior side facing the enclosure. A service bin is disposed on the interior side of the service door. The service bin is positioned to hold delivered items when the service door is open and to drop the delivered items when the service door is closed. A secure bin is disposed in the enclosure under the service bin. The secure bin is positioned to receive the delivered items dropped from the service bin. The service bin is made up of the interior side of the service door, a bin floor extending at an obtuse angle from the interior side of the service door, and bin sidewalls extending between adjacent edges of the service door and the bin floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Chris Farentinos
  • Patent number: 6666372
    Abstract: A device is provided, for automatically illuminating a mailbox upon opening. A small box illuminating assembly is secured to the inside of a mailbox door and changes position as the door is opening and closed. The box illuminating assembly includes a light source, such as an LED, a power source, preferably a battery, and a tilt-actuated switch, all housed within a small container. When the mailbox door is opened, the tilt-actuated switch closes to activate the light source and illuminate the inside of the mailbox. Preferably, the light source is disposed at an acute angle to the door, so as to direct its light into the mailbox when the door is opened sufficiently to allow the inside of the box to be examined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew T. Nagel
  • Publication number: 20030222133
    Abstract: A mail collection apparatus comprising a housing defining an access opening. An access door is supported by the housing. The access door is moveable between a door open position, providing access to the housing interior space through the access opening, and a door closed position blocking the access opening. A chute is supported by the housing. The chute comprises an inlet end defining a chute inlet opening adapted for receiving mail and a chute outlet end defining a chute outlet opening opposite the inlet end. A bag comprises an inlet portion defining a bag inlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Michael D. Esakov, Charles Kannankeril, Lawrence J. Pillote, Atul Arora, William P. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6655577
    Abstract: A mail box comprising a separated top and bottom port. A pivotally hinged gate/tray serves for depositing the incoming mail. The gate/tray has a pocket for outgoing mail and secures the top port from theft. Under the gate-tray a fixture with short wave ultraviolet (UV) light irradiates the box inside simultaneously generating ozone for a predetermined time. This time starts after the outgoing mail is put in the pocket or the incoming mail is dropped inside. A specially designed basket provides space around the mail where sanitizing gas freely diffuses. The light source can irradiate and activate gas-releasing material generating other disinfecting gas such as chlorine dioxide or ethylene oxide. The bottom port is closed by a locked door and allows for retrieving the mail, and setting and maintaining the UV-fixture. Two signals on an outside flag indicate the beginning and the end of the sanitizing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventors: Gueorgui Mihaylov, Evdokia Mihaylov
  • Publication number: 20030218059
    Abstract: A theft-preventative mailbox for holding various sizes of mail correspondence and mail parcels. The mailbox includes an elongate and internally hollowed body with a mail correspondence insertion slot at a generally upper end location. The body further includes a mail storage compartment, and the body is further fixedly anchored at a ground location so that at least a portion of the mail storage compartment extends below a surface of the ground location. An access door is defined within the body and permits the depositing of mail parcels into the storage compartment. A constriction skirt is secured to the interior of the mailbox body and includes a plurality of inwardly directed and pointed spear portions for permitting one-way depositing of mail correspondence and mail parcels. A mail retrieval mechanism acts in concert with the parcel access door to permit the retrieval of the mail correspondence and mail parcels deposited within the storage compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Shawky Hassan
  • Publication number: 20030209595
    Abstract: A mail depository apparatus includes a rigid housing forming a channel adapted for directing deposited mail items and an interface member adapted to attach a flexible container to the housing for receiving deposited mail items from the channel, wherein the interface member is adapted to seal the flexible container to the housing to substantially prevent escape of air from the flexible container and the housing at the interface member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert J. Felice, Patrick J. Fitzgibbons, John T. Swider
  • Publication number: 20030192946
    Abstract: A system and method for substantially eliminating the release of pathogen agents circulating in the air within a collection box. The mail deposit openings (12, 14) of a collection box mail chute (16) are adapted with gaskets (18, 20) to form an airtight seal when the mail chute (16) is opened and closed, thereby isolating the collection box interior (26). An alternative embodiment can further include charging means (32) and a chargeable material (34) to attract and detain airborne and free pathogen particles that enter the mail chute passage (22) either by newly deposited mail pieces (38) or airborne pathogen particles that migrated from within the collection box collection area (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick J. Fitzgibbons, Christopher J. Tatar
  • Patent number: 6629634
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Inventor: Brenda Ann Simmons
  • Publication number: 20030168507
    Abstract: A mail box comprising separated top and bottom port. A pivotally hinged gate/tray serves for depositing the incoming mail. Same gate/tray has a hard-cover book-looking pocket for outgoing mail and secures the top port from theft. Under the gate-tray a fixture with short wave ultraviolet (UV) light irradiates the box inside generating simultaneously ozone for a predetermined time. This time starts after the outgoing mail is put in the pocket or the incoming mail is dropped inside. Specially designed basket provides space around the mail where sanitizing gas freely diffuses. Same light source can irradiate and activate gas-releasing material generating other than ozone disinfecting gas such as chlorine dioxide or ethylene oxide. The bottom port is closed by locked door serving for retrieving the mail, setting and maintaining the UV-fixture. Two signals on outside flag indicate the beginning and the end of the sanitizing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Gueorgui Mihaylov, Evdokia Mihaylov
  • Publication number: 20030155412
    Abstract: A mail processing apparatus, includes an enclosure adapted for receiving deposited mail articles, a depository port adapted for passing deposited mail articles into the enclosure, and a sealing apparatus operatively associated with the depository port and adapted to seal deposited mail articles that pass through the depository port. The sealing apparatus may be a laminator adapted to apply a layer of plastic material to opposing sides of deposited mail articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert J. Felice, Patrick J. Fitzgibbons, Louis B. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6533167
    Abstract: A theft-preventative mailbox for holding various sizes of mail correspondence and mail parcels. The mailbox includes an elongate and internally hollowed body and an upwardly and forwardly angled mail inserting end including; a mail correspondence insertion slot at a generally upper end location of the elongated body. The body further includes a mail storage compartment, and the body is further fixedly anchored at a ground location so that at least a portion of the mail storage compartment extends below a surface of the ground location. An access door is defined within the mail box and permits the depositing of mail parcels into the storage compartment. A mail retrieval mechanisms permits retrieval of the mail correspondence and mail parcels deposited within the storage compartment. The mail retrieval mechanism includes the upwardly and forwardly angled mail inserting end being hingedly secured to the generally upper end location of the elongated body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Shawky Hassan
  • Patent number: 6520405
    Abstract: A lock for a rural mailbox which enables normal access to the mailbox by a postal delivery person when placing mail in the box and enabling the mailbox door to be closed and locked by the postal delivery person without the use of a key or any other device to protect the mail that is in the box. The postal customer must use a key to open the lock to gain access to the protected mail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Inventor: Lorenzo C. Braxter
  • Publication number: 20030024972
    Abstract: A delivery receptacle has a divider wall between the upper and lower compartments, a divider wall opening selectively sealed by two inner pivotable panels, outer side edges of the inner pivotable panels being connected by spring-loaded hinges to a side edges of the divider wall opening for movement about the hinges between normally closed and forcibly-opened positions, and the outer side edges of the inner pivotable panels and the side edges of the divider wall opening being perpendicular to the upper compartment opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Bobbie J. Cox, Charles W. Langley, David E. Rankin, David S. Wick, Oscar P. Roper, Dale R. Westerfield
  • Publication number: 20030024973
    Abstract: A delivery receptacle has a partial divider wall between the upper and lower compartments, and the divider wall being fixed within the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Bobbie J. Cox, Charles W. Langley, David E. Rankin, David S. Wick, Oscar P. Roper, Dale R. Westerfield
  • Publication number: 20030019921
    Abstract: A delivery receptacle has an upper compartment having a greater depth dimension than the lower compartment, with back walls of the upper and lower compartments being substantially aligned, such that the upper compartment has an extended front section with respect to a front wall of the lower compartment to permit a bricked-in installation of the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Bobbie J. Cox, Charles W. Langley, David E. Rankin, David S. Wick, Oscar P. Roper, Dale R. Westerfield
  • Publication number: 20020162883
    Abstract: A package delivery and pickup receptacle system where packages can be delivered to a secure and weatherproof receptacle by delivery firms regardless of the availability of the customer to receive the package. In addition, a customer may place packages in this secure and weatherproof receptacle for pickup service by delivery firms at any time. This receptacle may be fabricated from metal, high-impact polymers or plastics or other suitable materials. Its integrated components include an interior divider shelf to accommodate small and large packages together or larger single packages. The receptacle has a split or “Dutch style” or split front locking door for security that is hinged on the left side of the receptacle to permit easy access from a delivery vehicle approaching from the right-side of the roadway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Richard Henry Arvonio, Lawrence Russell Baumiller
  • Patent number: 6412688
    Abstract: A parcel receptacle having a housing and a door member coupled to the housing, the door member structured to move between an open position and a closed position, and a lock assembly. The lock assembly includes a cam lock, a lock set assembly and a lock catch assembly. The cam lock having a latch member structured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. The lock set assembly having a first position and a second position. The lock catch assembly having a catch member. The cam lock is coupled to the parcel receptacle door. The lock set is coupled to the parcel receptacle door adjacent to the cam lock. The catch member coupled to the housing so that the catch member is positioned to engage either the cam lock latch member or the lock set assembly when the door member is moved into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Solar Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifton A. Tucker, Eric Holder, Derrick Dry, Larry D. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20020066779
    Abstract: A theft-preventative mailbox for holding various sizes of mail correspondence and mail parcels. The mailbox includes an elongate and internally hollowed body with a mail correspondence insertion slot at a generally upper end location. The body further includes a mail storage compartment, and the body is further fixedly anchored at a ground location so that at least a portion of the mail storage compartment extends below a surface of the ground location. An access door is defined within the body and permits the depositing of mail parcels into the storage compartment. A mail retrieval mechanism acts in concert with the parcel access door to permit the retrieval of the mail correspondence and mail parcels deposited within the storage compartment. The mail retrieval mechanism includes a platform defined within the elongate and internally hollowed body and upon which is supported the deposited mail correspondence and mail parcels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Shawky Hassan
  • Patent number: 6378767
    Abstract: A security deposit mailbox that may be installed in a wall, door or other structure. A pivoting door allows items to be placed into an attached pan from which the items slide or fall through an opening when the door is closed. The pan prevents access to the opening when the door is opened. A secure storage container is provided for retaining the deposited mail when the deposit box and secure storage container are mounted in a wall or plinth. A framework that may be used in the installation, and methods of installation are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Jack W. Steele
  • Patent number: 6375070
    Abstract: A postal delivery apparatus and method for delivering and removing parcels to residential and commercial customer is provided. The postal delivery apparatus preferably has a base including a bottom, a plurality of outer walls connected to and extending upwardly from the bottom, a substantially hollow portion positioned within inner confines of the outer walls so as to define an inner cavity, and an open upper end positioned for providing access to the inner cavity. At least one of the plurality of outer walls preferably includes a wall opening formed therein for inserting letter-type parcels through the wall opening into the inner cavity of the base. The wall opening preferably is sized and positioned for inhibiting access by a user to letter-type parcels positioned in the inner cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: American Industrial Design Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip Jack Snoke
  • Publication number: 20020023949
    Abstract: A parcel receptacle having a housing and a door member coupled to the housing, the door member structured to move between an open position and a closed position, and a lock assembly. The lock assembly includes a cam lock, a lock set assembly and a lock catch assembly. The cam lock having a latch member structured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. The lock set assembly having a first position and a second position. The lock catch assembly having a catch member. The cam lock is coupled to the parcel receptacle door. The lock set is coupled to the parcel receptacle door adjacent to the cam lock. The catch member coupled to the housing so that the catch member is positioned to engage either the cam lock latch member or the lock set assembly when the door member is moved into the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Inventors: Clifton A. Tucker, Eric Holder, Derick Dry, Larry D. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6347737
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Tony O. Madruga
  • Publication number: 20020014525
    Abstract: A keepsake apparatus can be used for special events, for example, weddings, bar mitzvahs, anniversaries, birthdays, and special promotional collections or donations. More particularly, the keepsake apparatus, which is configured to replicated a building connected to an event, provides a repository for articles, such as gift envelopes or money, in a secure manner while providing a decorative keepsake of the event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventor: Larry Webb
  • Patent number: 6343737
    Abstract: A mail slot door immobilizer for immobilizing a mail slot door within a main door, including an interior portion located on an interior side of the mail slot door and overlapping the mail slot door and the main door, and an exterior portion located on an exterior side of the mail slot door and overlapping the mail slot door and the main door. A fastener removably fastens the interior portion to the exterior portion to clamp the mail slot door and the main door between the interior and exterior portions and to prevent movement of the mail slot door with respect to the main door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Security Accessories Corp.
    Inventor: Dwayne Roger Adams
  • Patent number: 6328205
    Abstract: An interlocking door seam provides a stronger seam for double doors, making them less subject to attack by prybars and the like. Particularly for central mail stations (CMS) and central box units CBU, double doors present there are subject to attack by prybars and the like that force the locks and allow thieves to rifle the contents of the enclosed mail boxes. Attachment of interlocking door seam to the first edge of the first double doors protects that first edge from prybar attacks. The adjoining edge of the second double door then releasably fits into a convex strip that protects the adjoining edge of the second double door, thereby protecting it from prybar attack. The interlocking door seam allows normal operation of the double doors while decreasing the risk to the central mail station of prybar attack at the seam between the double doors. Flanges present along the free edge of the convex strip provide easy engagement of that free edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: CanAm Marketing Corp.
    Inventors: C. Dale Noblet, Stephen R. Packer
  • Patent number: 6296181
    Abstract: An interlocking door seam provides a stronger seam for double doors, making them less subject to attack by prybars and the like. Particularly for central mail stations (CMS) and central box units (CBU), double doors present there are subject to attack by prybars and the like that force the locks and allow thieves to rifle the contents of the enclosed mail boxes. Attachment of interlocking door seam [of the present invention] to the first edge of the first double doors protects that first edge from prybar attacks. The adjoining edge of the second double door then releasably fits into a convex strip that protects the adjoining edge of the second double door, thereby protecting it from prybar attack. The interlocking door seam allows normal operation of the double doors while decreasing the risk to the central mail station of prybar attack at the seam between the double doors. Flanges present along the free edge of the convex strip provide easy engagement of that free edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Can-Am Marketing Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Dale Noblet, Stephen R. Packer
  • Publication number: 20010011679
    Abstract: An interlocking door seam provides a stronger seam for double doors, making them less subject to attack by prybars and the like. Particularly for central mail stations (CMS) and central box units CBU, double doors present there are subject to attack by prybars and the like that force the locks and allow thieves to rifle the contents of the enclosed mail boxes. Attachment of interlocking door seam of the present invention to the first edge of the first double doors protects that first edge from prybar attacks. The adjoining edge of the second double door then releasably fits into a convex strip that protects the adjoining edge of the second double door, thereby protecting it from prybar attack. The interlocking door seam allows normal operation of the double doors while decreasing the risk to the central mail station of prybar attack at the seam between the double doors. Flanges present along the free edge of the convex strip provide easy engagement of that free edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: August 9, 2001
    Inventors: C. Dale Noblet, Stephen R. Packer
  • Patent number: 6247641
    Abstract: An interlocking door seam provides a stronger seam for double doors, making them less subject to attack by prybars and the like. Particularly for central mail stations (CMS) and central box units CBU, double doors present there are subject to attack by prybars and the like that force the locks and allow thieves to rifle the contents of the enclosed mail boxes. Attachment of interlocking door seam to the first edge of the first double doors protects that first edge from prybar attacks. The adjoining edge of the second double door then releasably fits into a convex strip that protects the adjoining edge of the second double door, thereby protecting it from prybar attack. The interlocking door seam allows normal operation of the double doors while decreasing the risk to the central mail station of prybar attack at the seam between the double doors. Flanges present along the free edge of the convex strip provide easy engagement of that free edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventors: C. Dale Noblet, Stephen R. Packer
  • Patent number: 6234387
    Abstract: A mail box insert that includes a decorative facade plate and that is insertable into an existing mail receiving compartment of an existing mail box housing and secured in place to refurbish the appearance of the existing mail box. The mail box insert is held in place with opposed securing screw assemblies that generate a compressional force against the inner surfaces of the existing mail box sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventors: Julius Cuthbert, Gilda V. Cuthbert
  • Patent number: 6123257
    Abstract: A masonry mailbox assembly including a masonry shell, a mailbox liner encased within the shell and a mailbox insert disposed within the mailbox liner. The mailbox insert can be removably secured within the mailbox liner so that the mailbox can be replaced without dismantling the masonry shell. Also disclosed is a mailbox face for use as the mailbox insert in place of a complete mailbox. the mailbox face includes a mailbox door pivotally mounted to a flange and can be used to repair existing masonry mailboxes with a damaged mailbox insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Gregory J. Guidicy
  • Patent number: 6032855
    Abstract: A message display apparatus for displaying messages and receiving mail includes a body which is attachable to a structure. A note pad is coupled to the front surface of the body. The front surface of the body also has a drawer slidably inserted into the interior of the body and a slot therein providing an opening into the drawer. A pair of spaced apart hooks downwardly extend from the lower end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Brenda F. Douglas
  • Patent number: 5992736
    Abstract: An improved security mailbox having a combination mail receiving and outgoing mail portion, securely held within an opening formed in a wall of a rectangular housing. The combination mail receiving and outgoing mail portion includes a top chamber which holds outgoing mail, and a bottom slot which connects to an inner chamber formed in the rectangular housing. Mail collects on a shelf secured in the inner chamber, and is accessible from a lockable door either in the front or rear wall. The shelf may be bare or have tiles thereon for easy cleaning, and the top of the housing is securely capped, while the base of the housing may be secured to the ground in any desired manner, or to a concrete support base. A plurality of combination mail receiving and outgoing mail portions may be secured in the housing, and an equal number of shelves and lockable doors may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Robert E. Parker
  • Patent number: 5979751
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph Y. Maddox
  • Patent number: 5954264
    Abstract: A mailbox has a housing with an internal chamber for receiving mail and a mailbox door attached for movement with respect to the housing between a closed position for enclosing the internal chamber and an open position for exposing the internal chamber. A door actuating mechanism is attached to the mailbox and is operable to assist in remotely opening and closing the door by a mail carrier. The door actuating mechanism includes a transmitter; a door mounting section connected to the door; an electrical actuator having an actuator body fixed with respect to the mailbox housing; and an actuator shaft mounted for movement with respect to the actuator body. The shaft has a proximal end portion movably mounted in the actuator body and a distal end portion connected to the door mounting section for opening and closing the door upon movement of the shaft. A receiver is electrically coupled to the actuator for causing the actuator to open or close the mailbox door upon receipt of a signal from the transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventor: Louis D. Keller
  • Patent number: 5950918
    Abstract: A space shuttle mail box with nose cone delivery door, tail end delivery door, raisable tail flag and mail box post support. Each of the components structurally resembles a United States Space Shuttle and further includes perpendicular main sidewings, O.M.S. thruster pod protrusions, and dome shaped protrusions extending rearwardly from the tail end delivery door. Both the tail end and the front end nose cone can pivotally open relative to the main cargo bay section in order to put mail into the cargo bay interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Michael J. McDonough
  • Patent number: 5938113
    Abstract: A mailbox includes a housing for receiving and storing mail, the housing having a first upper opening through which mail can be deposited and retrieved, and a second lower opening through which mail can be retrieved; a mailbox door mounted to the housing for movement between a first door position in covering relation to the first opening and a second door position out of the covering relation; and a lockable door movable between a first locked position in covering relation to the second opening and a second unlocked position out of the covering relation to permit access to the housing. A mail support is movably mounted within the housing for movement between a first mail support position for supporting mail adjacent the first opening and a second position for supplying mail to a lower portion of the housing adjacent the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Duk M. Kim
  • Patent number: 5850967
    Abstract: A security mailbox includes a housing having a movable side wall hingedly attaches to the top wall. There is an insertion port in the movable side wall and a moisture barrier adjacent the insertion port. There is a security barrier adjacent the insertion port. A keypad lock port and a key lock port extends through the movable side wall. A lock member attached to the second surface includes a key actuated locking mechanism on the first surface extending through the key lock port. The key actuated locking mechanism selectively locks the movable side wall to the bottom wall. The lock member may have a keypad actuated locking mechanism, on the first surface, extending through the keypad lock port that locks the movable side wall to the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Inventor: J. La Nell White