SECURE HOME INTERACTIVE PACKAGING SYSTEM (S.H.I.P.S.)

Abstract

A package receptacle system includes a receptacle having an interior storage compartment sized to receive a package. The receptacle includes a lower floor, sidewalls extending upward from the lower floor, and an upper ceiling covering an opening defined by upper ends of the sidewalls. A digital locking mechanism is attached to an outer surface of the receptacle that is configured to provide keyless access to the interior storage compartment and to move a lock between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position includes the door in a closed position, and the unlocked position includes the door capable of being opened and closed. The digital locking mechanism is configured to move the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position responsive to one or more wireless inputs received from an electronic device.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/708,067 filed on Dec. 1, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a device for securely storing articles for pick up or for securely receiving delivered items in absentia and securing those items until removed by a responsible party.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a digitally controlled receptacle and, more particularly, to a receptacle mounted in, on, or near a residential home or similar other building for package pick up and/or delivery.

Package delivery, parcel delivery, mail delivery or even grocery delivery to a residential home is provided by postal systems (e.g., USPS) and private delivery services (e.g., UPS, FedEx, DHL). When delivering a package or article to a residential neighborhood or to any generic building, the package may often be delivered and left on the front porch or near the front entrance to the building. This may result in a ruined package in severe weather conditions; alternately, the package out in the open may be stolen. Tampering with the packages by unauthorized personnel is another problem. Similarly, a home resident or a building occupant looking to ship a package to a recipient typically has to travel with the package to a nearby post office or to a private package delivery service office (e.g., UPS office, FedEx Office) in order to have the package shipped to the recipient. The time it takes to travel to and from the post office or private package delivery service office may be undesirable for a person with limited time availability. Further, in a residential home setting, providing access to personnel into the house through the front door or into the garage through the garage doors for package delivery/pick-up can create a sense of insecurity in the building/house occupant's mind. It may also be desirable to have a provision for neighbors being able to drop stuff off securely and for the building occupant/owner to leave stuff securely for neighbors to pick up.

Therefore, a need exists for a basic, cost effective, secure receptacle that is positioned outside the house/building such that the receptacle can accessed by the package delivery person with the receptacle securing the delivered package until the responsible party removes it; similarly, the receptacle should also be able to securely hold a package to be picked up and providing secure access to the package pick up person.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form concepts that are further described in the following detailed descriptions. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Disclosed herein is a package receptacle system including: a receptacle having an interior storage compartment sized to receive a package, the receptacle comprising a lower floor adapted for supporting a package placed in the interior storage compartment, and sidewalls extending upward from the lower floor and an upper ceiling covering an opening defined by upper ends of the sidewalls; an access to the interior storage compartment and a door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the access when in a closed position; and a digital locking mechanism attached to an outer surface of the receptacle, the digital locking mechanism operable configured to: provide keyless access to the interior storage compartment; and move a lock between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position comprises the door in a closed position, and the unlocked position comprises the door capable of being opened and closed, wherein the digital locking mechanism is configured to move the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position responsive to one or more wireless inputs received from an electronic device.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a sidewall of a building.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a sidewall of a garage attached to a building.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a front door of a building.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is mounted on a flat horizontal surface located outside of a building.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is positioned in front of the building.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is positioned between two adjacent buildings.

According to one or more embodiments, the receptacle is secured to the flat horizontal surface with a locking bolt system comprising anti-theft locking bolts, the anti-theft locking bolts requiring a predetermined unique tool for unlocking the anti-theft locking bolts.

According to one or more embodiments, a slot configured for dropping an envelope through the slot into the interior storage compartment.

According to one or more embodiments, the digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock to the unlocked position on wirelessly receiving a first authentication code; and to manipulate the lock to the locked position on wirelessly receiving a second authentication code.

According to one or more embodiments, the digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock to the unlocked position when a key is inserted into a key hole present on receptacle and turned; and to manipulate the lock to the locked position when the key is inserted into the key hole present on receptacle and turned.

According to one or more embodiments, the digital locking mechanism is operable via one of a: USB port, a touch screen, a dial pad, a Wi-Fi connection, an Ethernet connection, a Bluetooth connection, a cellphone network tower connection and a satellite connection.

According to one or more embodiments, the digital locking mechanism is capable of communicating with any device connected to the internet.

According to one or more embodiments, the digital access mechanism is configured to electronically communicate updates to a package service provider associated with a package delivery or a package pick-up.

According to one or more embodiments, the package receptacle system further includes one or more of: an audible alarm, a visual alarm, a back-up battery power source, an A/C power socket, an inlet for internet connectivity, a light source, a temperature sensor, a motion detector, a still camera, and a motion camera.

According to one or more embodiments, the interior storage compartment is accessible from an exterior of a building and from an interior of the building.

According to one or more embodiments, the package receptacle system includes a camera surveillance system configured to communicate with a building security system, the camera surveillance system further configured to log and record each access, and each access attempt, to the interior storage compartment.

According to one or more embodiments, the package receptacle system includes a side access to the interior storage compartment defined by an opening in a sidewall of the receptacle, and a side door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the side access when in a closed position.

According to one or more embodiments, the package receptacle system includes motion-initiated illumination of one or more of: a keypad of the digital locking mechanism and an area contiguous to the receptacle.

According to one or more embodiments, the digital access mechanism is configured to electronically communicate one or more of: a loss of A/C power supply and a low back-up battery power.

Disclosed herein is a method of package storage and retrieval that includes: receiving wirelessly, by a digital locking mechanism of a receptacle, an authentication code from an electronic device operated by a user attempting to gain access to an interior storage compartment of the receptacle, wherein the receptacle further comprises a lower floor adapted for supporting a package placed in the interior storage compartment, sidewalls extending upward from the lower floor, an upper ceiling covering an opening defined by upper ends of the sidewalls, an access to the interior storage compartment, a door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the access when in a closed position, wherein the digital locking mechanism is attached to an outer surface of the receptacle, wherein the digital locking mechanism configured to provide keyless access to the interior storage compartment; verifying, by the digital locking mechanism, of the authentication code as an authorized authentication code; and manipulating of a lock, by the digital locking mechanism, to move the lock from a locked position to an unlocked position to render the door capable of being opened and closed.

Disclosed herein is a method of securing a package the includes: wirelessly communicating an authentication code to a digital locking mechanism attached to a sidewall of a receptacle to move a lock from a locked position to an unlocked position, wherein the receptacle comprises an interior storage compartment sized to receive a package, an access to the interior storage compartment, a door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the access when in a closed position, and the digital locking mechanism configured to move the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position, wherein the locked position comprises the door in a closed position, and the unlocked position comprises the door capable of being opened and closed; opening the door and placing a package within the interior storage compartment of the receptacle and closing the door; and moving, by the digital locking mechanism, of the lock from the unlocked position to the locked position to secure the placed package.

Other objects and advantages of this invention will be better appreciated from the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a structural diagram of a package receptacle system attached to a building in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the package receptacle system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3A-3C are structural diagrams of the package receptacle system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Broadly, an embodiment of the present invention provides a package receptacle system with a receptacle including a digital locking mechanism that provides for keyless delivering and picking up of packages. A building owner/occupant may place a package for delivery in the receptacle and then lock it. A user, e.g., a package pick up person, may then unlock the receptacle and retrieve the package. Alternatively, a delivery person may place the package within the receptacle and lock it. Then, the building owner/occupant, such as, for example, an owner or tenant occupying a residential home, may unlock the receptacle to retrieve the delivered package.

The general purpose of the secure package receptacle system, described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a secure package receptacle system which has many novel features that result in an improved secure package receptacle. The package receptacle system is particularly well-suited for residential usage in suburban, rural, and other settings where parcel deliveries are made. The package receptacle system safely accommodates and protects both oversized packages and small packages; it also provides delivery space for express delivery companies and others that are barred from using mailboxes designated for stamped mail delivery.

Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3C, a package receptacle system according to the present invention includes a receptacle 10. The receptacle 10 includes at least one sidewall having a top rim and a bottom side. For example, the receptacle 10 may include four sidewalls 26. The sidewalls and the bottom side form an interior storage compartment of the receptacle in between and an upper ceiling covering an opening defined by the top rims of the sidewalls. The receptacle 10 further includes an access to the interior storage compartment and an access door 18 (alternately referred to as door 18) pivotally attached to the receptacle with a hinge for closing the access in a closed position. The receptacle may optionally have a second door (not shown). The doors may be provided with door handles. The door 18 may close to cover the access of the receptacle and open to reveal the inside of the receptacle. The receptacle may further include a back panel console 52 that may be opened with a key to provide electrical and internet connections to the receptacle. The receptacle may further include a back battery console 54 for providing back up power to the receptacle in case of loss of external power supply to which the receptacle may typically be connected to.

In certain embodiments, the package receptacle system includes a mounting mechanism for mounting the bottom side of the receptacle 10 to a flat horizontal surface 48. In certain embodiments, the surface 48 may be a porch or landing in front of a residential home or a building, such as a concrete porch. The mounting mechanism may include anti-theft locking bolts 50 going through openings in the bottom side of the receptacle 10. Each locking bolt 50 may be mounted to an anchor (not shown) that is within the surface 48. Therefore, the locking bolt 50 and anchor may secure the receptacle 10 to the surface 48. The anti-theft locking bolts 50 may be configured such that they can be removed using conventional tools, but rather require a special tool for removal of the bolts.

FIG. 1 shows a first package receptacle system attached to the sidewall of the garage of a house (see left side of FIG. 1) and a second package receptacle system attached to the sidewall of the house (see right side of FIG. 1). FIG. 2 shows a perspective view corresponding to the embodiment of the package receptacle systems shown in FIG. 1. While the FIG. 2 embodiment shows two receptacles 10 combined in a single receptacle system, in other embodiments each package receptacle system may include only one receptacle 10. FIGS. 3A-3C show another embodiment of package receptacle system that is not attached to any side walls, but is rather configured as a stand-alone system that is attached to a horizontal flat surface such as, for example, a concrete pad.

The construction of the receptacle 10 can be a unitary plastic body, such as produced by injection molding, though other unitary constructions are also possible as well as fabrication and assembly of individual parts to form the receptacle 10. Other appropriate polymers, fiberglass, metals, and the like may also be used when needed or when most cost effective. In some embodiments, the receptacle 10 may be made of plastics, stainless steel or another metal that does not rust to sustain harsh weather conditions. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of the receptacle may be about 24 inches in width, at least 36 inches in depth, and 36 inches in length. However, the receptacle is not limited to the dimensions mentioned above and may be any dimensions desired. For example, the receptacle may be manufactured in S, M, and L sizes, as well as in various other custom sizes and optional sizes. The receptacle 10 may also include in a variety of colors, and may include logos and advertising on the various outer surfaces of the receptacle 10. The receptacle 10 may be provided with insulation and heating/cooling accessories such that the receptacle 10 is capable of maintaining the temperature within the storage compartment within a predetermined range, irrespective of the outside weather conditions.

Access to the interior storage compartment of the receptacle 10 is closable with the access door 18 that is pivotally attached to the sidewall of the receptacle 10. As evident from FIG. 2, the roof of the receptacle is not horizontal so that rain, snow, ice, etc., can be shed by the roof. The door 18 may be equipped with an address placard (not shown) on which the address of the user can be indicated. A side surface of the receptacle 10 may carry a message, such as “pickup” to notify a delivery driver that a package is within the receptacle 10 for pickup.

The access door 18 comprises a flushly fitted lockable access door that secures the access to the interior storage compartment. A hinge 46 attaches the access door 18 to the receptacle. The hinge is a piano hinge in one example. Another example features a wire hinge. Another example features a concealed hinge. A recessed handle 20 is disposed within the access door 18. The handle is at an opposite side of the door from the hinge. In one embodiment, a lock 22 (see FIG. 3C) may be integrated with the recessed handle 20 as a single unit.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the receptacle may be mounted in a recess formed on a sidewall of a building, for e.g., the sidewall of a residential home. In a further embodiment, the recess is formed on a sidewall of a garage attached to a building, also as shown in FIG. 1. In another embodiment, the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a front door of a building (not shown). In one embodiment, the interior storage compartment may be accessible from both an exterior of a building and an interior of the building. For example, in an embodiment where the receptacle 10 is mounted in a recess formed on a sidewall of a residential home or building, or in a recess formed on a sidewall of a garage of a residential home or building, while a user such as a package delivery/drop-off person may be able to access the interior storage compartment of the receptacle from the exterior of the residential home or building, a building occupant/owner may be able to access the interior storage compartment of the receptacle from within the garage/residential home/building. To facilitate this, an additional access to the interior storage compartment defined by an opening in a sidewall of the receptacle, (and optionally a side door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the side access when in a closed position, the side door having a side door handle) may be provided for accessing the interior storage compartment from the interior of the garage/residential home/building.

In one embodiment, the receptacle may be flush mounted into the interior wall of the house such that no portion of the receptacle extends beyond the external surface of the building's wall. This set-up may be beneficial to integrate into a home/building's wall during new construction of the home or building. In this embodiment, a good portion of the receptacle may occupy the space “between” the interior and exterior walls.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the package receptacle system may be mounted on a flat horizontal surface 48 located outside of a building. In one embodiment, the package receptacle system may be positioned in front of the building. In another embodiment, the package receptacle system may be positioned between two adjacent buildings. In one embodiment, for e.g., in the embodiment similar to the one shown in FIG. 3, the receptacle is secured to the flat horizontal surface with a locking bolt system comprising anti-theft locking bolts 50, the locking bolts requiring a non-conventional tool for unlocking the locking bolts. In one embodiment, a base 42 may be located beneath the lower floor, the base 42 separating the lower floor from the surface 48.

In one embodiment, the receptacle may further comprise a slot (not shown) configured for dropping an envelope through the slot into the interior storage compartment. The package receptacle system may further be provided with features such as: an audible alarm, a visual alarm, a back-up battery power source, an A/C power socket, an inlet for internet connectivity, a light source, a temperature sensor, a motion detector, a still camera, and a motion camera. In one embodiment, the package receptacle system may further include a camera surveillance system configured to communicate with a building security system; this camera surveillance system may be configured to log and record each access and each access attempt to the interior storage compartment.

In one embodiment, the interior storage compartment may be provided with shelving for arranging packages therein. In one embodiment, the receptacle may be provided with temperature controls to maintain an appropriate temperature for a package that may contain perishable goods that need to be kept at a specified temperature. In one embodiment, the receptacle may be provided with weather proofing. In one embodiment the package receptacle system may be positioned near a sidewalk of a residential or commercial development. In one embodiment, the receptacle may be constructed of durable material that prevents tampering. In one embodiment, the receptacle may be provided with one or more handles to help with the moving of the receptacle from one location to another, for example, for shipping the package receptacle system from the factory to the customer location.

The package receptacle system further includes a digital locking mechanism 24. The digital locking mechanism 14 is attached to an outer surface of the receptacle 10, and may include a digital display, an alpha-numeric key pad, a microphone, a speaker, and a USB port. The digital locking mechanism 14 is configured to provide keyless access to the interior storage compartment. In some embodiments, the digital locking mechanism 14 is embedded with a sidewall 26 of receptacle 10. In some embodiments, the digital locking mechanism 14 may be rigidly attached to a sidewall 26 of receptacle 10. The digital locking mechanism 14 is configured to move a lock 22 securing the access door 18 between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position comprises the access door 18 in a closed position, and the unlocked position comprises the access door 18 capable of being opened and closed. The locked position may secure the door 18 in a closed position, preventing the door 18 from being opened and thereby securing the contents within the receptacle 10. The digital locking mechanism 14 may be in an unlocked position in which the door 18 may be opened and closed freely. In one embodiment, the display screen and/or the lock of may not be visible from the outside of the receptacle, with access to the interior storage compartment only being controllable through a mobile app.

The digital locking mechanism 14 may include software. The software may be embodied as a computer control code and may be on the digital locking mechanism 14, or distributed among the digital locking mechanism 14 and other components that form the package receptacle system. The software is a complete package to provide access control to the receptacle 10. The software is capable of connecting a TV, monitor, speaker, microphone and devices to enable larger video and audio capabilities. Any user having a mobile device may interact with the digital locking mechanism 14 using a mobile software application (e.g., mobile app) or through an internet browser. The user may include a building occupant, a home owner, a home occupant, a home owner's association representative, a package pick-up person and a package delivery person, among others. The digital locking mechanism 14 may communicate over any variety of wired and wireless networks, and utilize security and authentication procedures to permitting access to the interior storage compartment of the receptacle 10. The digital locking mechanism 14 may also communicate over Wi-Fi (e.g., 802.11 wireless), Bluetooth, RFID, NFC and other communication systems.

The digital locking mechanism 14 may be configured to communicate with a remote entity. The remote entity is configured for receiving information from the digital locking mechanism 14. The remote entity may be an external server. The remote entity may be a person associated with the receptacle. The digital locking mechanism 14 may be configured to provide one or more alerts to an authorized person associated with the receptacle. The digital locking mechanism 14 may be configured to provide the one or more alerts based on characteristics as determined or monitored by the digital locking mechanism 14. The one or more alerts may be based on a time of day. The one or more alerts may include a theft alarm.

The digital locking mechanism 14 may include temperature sensor configured for monitoring a temperature of the interior storage compartment. The digital locking mechanism 14 may include an imaging interface, the digital locking mechanism 14 configured for imaging an user attempting to access the receptacle 10 or the interior storage compartment of the receptacle 10 and associated environment, and communicating the image to an authorized person (such as a building owner/operator/occupant) for providing the user with access to the interior storage compartment.

The digital locking mechanism 14 may include memory and a processor. The processor may execute computer control code found on the device. A transmitter or other radio device may be used for transmitting information. Additionally, transmitter may be able to communicate with a smart phone or other computing device. For example, the smart phone may receive information regarding an user attempting to access the interior storage compartment of the receptacle, and then transmit a signal to the digital locking mechanism 14 to activate a mechanism that unlocks the access door 18 of the receptacle 10 for a predetermined duration of time to permit access to a user to drop a package into the interior storage compartment (or to pick-up a package present in the interior storage compartment).

The digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock 20 securing access door 18 covering the recess to the unlocked position on wirelessly receiving an authentication code from a user or from the building occupant/owner. In one embodiment, the building owner/operator may previously provide an authentication code to a user that the user may communicate wirelessly to the digital locking mechanism 14 to cause it to unlock the access door 18. In this embodiment, the authentication code may previously be fed to the digital locking mechanism's memory whereby the digital locking mechanism may compare the authentication code provided wirelessly by the user with the authentication code in its memory, and when there is a match, the digital locking mechanism will proceed to unlock the top door 18. In one embodiment, the digital locking mechanism may cause the authentication code to expire after a predetermined a time period following which a new authentication code is generated and provided to the user, the building owner/operator and the digital locking mechanism. In one embodiment, the digital locking mechanism manages generation of this new authentication code as well as the expiration of the existing authentication code.

In one embodiment, the digital locking mechanism is addressable, operable, and/or updatable via one of a: USB port, a touch screen, a dial pad, an alpha-numeric key pad, a Wi-Fi connection, an Ethernet connection, a Bluetooth connection, a cellphone network tower connection and a satellite connection. In one embodiment, the digital locking mechanism is capable of communicating with any device connected to the internet. In a further embodiment, the digital access mechanism is configured to electronically communicate updates to a package service provider associated with a package delivery or a package pick-up.

The package receptacle system may optionally include a key lock that may be opened by a key. In the embodiment with a key lock, the digital locking mechanism 14 may be configured to manipulate the lock to the unlocked position when a key is inserted into a key hole present on receptacle 10 (optionally the key hole may be positioned on the digital locking mechanism 14) and turned in a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction. In such an embodiment, the owner/occupant of a residential home may own a key and may lock and unlock the receptacle 10 using the key. The owner/occupant may place a package within the receptacle 10 and lock the receptacle 10 using the key for pick up by a user such as a package pick-up person. The package pick-up person may use a copy of the same key to unlock the receptacle 10 and remove the package for delivery. Further, another user such as a package delivery person may deliver a package to the same receptacle 10 by opening the receptacle 10 with the further copy of the same key and place the package within the receptacle 10. The owner/occupant of the residential home may open the receptacle 10 with the key to obtain the package.

In one embodiment, the package receptacle system may comprise motion-initiated illumination of one or more of a keypad of the digital locking mechanism 14 and an area contiguous to the receptacle 10. In a further embodiment, the digital access mechanism 14 may be configured to electronically communicate one or more of a loss of A/C power supply and a low back-up battery power.

The digital locking mechanism 14 of a receptacle 10 of the package receptacle system may receive wirelessly, an authentication code from a mobile device operated by a user attempting to gain access to an interior storage compartment of the receptacle. In response, the digital locking mechanism, after verifying the authentication code as an authorized authentication code (e.g., after comparing the wirelessly provided authentication code with an authentication code provided by the building operator/owner; the authentication code may be provided by the building operator/owner either prior to, or after, the digital locking mechanism receives the authentication code from the user attempting to access the interior storage compartment of the receptacle 10), the digital locking mechanism may operate to cause the lock to move from a locked position and an unlocked position to render the access door 18 capable of being opened and closed. The user may then be able to open top door 18 to access the interior storage compartment either to drop a package therein, or to pick up a package present therein.

In one embodiment, the digital locking mechanism 14 may not connect to the internet, but only to an intranet, i.e., a local area network. In one embodiment, each of users of the package receptacle system may be provided a separate set of authentication code. For example, all users delivering packages may use one code, all users picking up packages may be use another code, all home owner association personnel may use a further different code, etc. In one embodiment, the receptacle may include two or more interior storage compartments, with each interior storage compartment requiring a separate authentication code for accessing the same.

Additional embodiments of the package receptacle system may include one or more of the following features. In one embodiment, a user must have a mobile app to access the interior storage compartment. In one embodiment, no access code is needed with a mobile app handling all access to the interior storage compartment as follows. In one embodiment, referring to a package delivery situation, the system may be integrated with the FedEx, UPS, etc. computer system such that when the driver arrives and scans the package to drop off, the box automatically pops open)—this way there is no involvement from the owner required at all. In one embodiment, the building owner/occupant may add his or her neighbor as a “friend” and provide access to that friend through the mobile app, for a specified period of time. When the building owner/occupant puts a package in and informs the mobile app that the neighbor is coming to get it, the neighbor gets a notification on the mobile app installed on the neighbor's device informing the neighbor regarding the package waiting for pick-up by the neighbor; then, when the neighbor gets near the receptacle to pick up the package, the neighbor clicks “I'm here” button on the mobile app, which causes the digital locking mechanism 14 to unlock the receptacle, and further for the access dor to open. In one embodiment, a camera forming part of the package receptacle system records every time the receptacle is accessed so that each access has photo/video proof of what happened, making each access much more auditable. In one embodiment, the camera is activated when somebody tries to tamper with the box, etc. In one embodiment, the building owner/occupant may be able to open the box from anywhere where the device operated by the owner/occupant has an internet connection; this way, if the owner/occupant receives call from a person informing that the person is ready to drop something off, the owner/occupant can cause the access door of the receptacle open without the delivery/pick-up person having to download the mobile app. In one embodiment, the mobile app may be compatible with, or integrated with, the operations of the delivery management system of vendors such as food/pizza delivery, grocery delivery, flower delivery, uber eats, instacart, etc. It should be noted that the size and shape of the receptacle is immaterial and is only limited by the utility of the receptacle and the preferences of the user community. Similarly, the location and style of the access door too is immaterial and is only limited by the utility of the receptacle and the preferences of the user community.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment. Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium (including, but not limited to, non-transitory computer readable storage media). A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Program code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter situation scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

Any dimensions expressed or implied in the drawings and these descriptions are provided for exemplary purposes. Thus, not all embodiments within the scope of the drawings and these descriptions are made according to such exemplary dimensions. The drawings are not made necessarily to scale. Thus, not all embodiments within the scope of the drawings and these descriptions are made according to the apparent scale of the drawings with regard to relative dimensions in the drawings. However, for each drawing, at least one embodiment is made according to the apparent relative scale of the drawing.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains. Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the presently disclosed subject matter, representative methods, devices, and materials are now described.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a”, “an”, and “the” refer to “one or more” when used in the subject specification, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a device” can include a plurality of such devices, and so forth.

The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A package receptacle system comprising:

a receptacle having an interior storage compartment sized to receive a package, the receptacle comprising a lower floor adapted for supporting a package placed in the interior storage compartment, and sidewalls extending upward from the lower floor and an upper ceiling covering an opening defined by upper ends of the sidewalls;

an access to the interior storage compartment and a door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the access when in a closed position; and

a digital locking mechanism attached to an outer surface of the receptacle, the digital locking mechanism operable configured to:

provide keyless access to the interior storage compartment; and

move a lock between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locked position comprises the door in a closed position, and the unlocked position comprises the door capable of being opened and closed,

wherein the digital locking mechanism is configured to move the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position responsive to one or more wireless inputs received from an electronic device.

2. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a sidewall of a building.

3. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a sidewall of a garage attached to a building.

4. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is mounted in a recess formed on a front door of a building.

5. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is mounted on a flat horizontal surface located outside of a building.

6. The package receptacle system of claim 5, wherein the receptacle is positioned in front of the building.

7. The package receptacle system of claim 5, wherein the receptacle is positioned between two adjacent buildings.

8. The package receptacle system of claim 5, wherein the receptacle is secured to the flat horizontal surface with a locking bolt system comprising anti-theft locking bolts, the anti-theft locking bolts requiring a predetermined unique tool for unlocking the anti-theft locking bolts.

9. The package receptacle system of claim 1, further comprising a slot configured for dropping an envelope through the slot into the interior storage compartment.

10. The package receptacle system of claim 1,

wherein the digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock to the unlocked position on wirelessly receiving a first authentication code; and

wherein the digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock to the locked position on wirelessly receiving a second authentication code.

11. The package receptacle system of claim 1,

wherein the digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock to the unlocked position when a key is inserted into a key hole present on receptacle and turned; and

wherein the digital locking mechanism is configured to manipulate the lock to the locked position when the key is inserted into the key hole present on receptacle and turned.

12. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the digital locking mechanism is operable via one of a: USB port, a touch screen, a dial pad, a Wi-Fi connection, an Ethernet connection, a Bluetooth connection, a cellphone network tower connection and a satellite connection.

13. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the digital locking mechanism is capable of communicating with any device connected to the internet.

14. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the digital access mechanism is configured to electronically communicate updates to a package service provider associated with a package delivery or a package pick-up.

15. The package receptacle system of claim 1, further comprising one or more of: an audible alarm, a visual alarm, a back-up battery power source, an A/C power socket, an inlet for internet connectivity, a light source, a temperature sensor, a motion detector, a still camera, and a motion camera.

16. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the interior storage compartment is accessible from an exterior of a building and from an interior of the building.

17. The package receptacle system of claim 1, further comprising a camera surveillance system configured to communicate with a building security system, the camera surveillance system further configured to log and record each access, and each access attempt, to the interior storage compartment.

18. The package receptacle system of claim 1, further comprising a side access to the interior storage compartment defined by an opening in a sidewall of the receptacle, and a side door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the side access when in a closed position.

19. The package receptacle system of claim 1, further comprising motion-initiated illumination of one or more of: a keypad of the digital locking mechanism and an area contiguous to the receptacle.

20. The package receptacle system of claim 1, wherein the digital access mechanism is configured to electronically communicate one or more of: a loss of A/C power supply and a low back-up battery power.

21. A method of package storage and retrieval, the method comprising:

receiving wirelessly, by a digital locking mechanism of a receptacle, an authentication code from an electronic device operated by a user attempting to gain access to an interior storage compartment of the receptacle,

wherein the receptacle further comprises a lower floor adapted for supporting a package placed in the interior storage compartment, sidewalls extending upward from the lower floor, an upper ceiling covering an opening defined by upper ends of the sidewalls, an access to the interior storage compartment, a door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the access when in a closed position, wherein the digital locking mechanism is attached to an outer surface of the receptacle, wherein the digital locking mechanism configured to provide keyless access to the interior storage compartment;

verifying, by the digital locking mechanism, of the authentication code as an authorized authentication code; and

manipulating of a lock, by the digital locking mechanism, to move the lock from a locked position to an unlocked position to render the door capable of being opened and closed.

22. A method of securing a package, the method comprising:

wirelessly communicating an authentication code to a digital locking mechanism attached to a sidewall of a receptacle to move a lock from a locked position to an unlocked position, wherein the receptacle comprises an interior storage compartment sized to receive a package, an access to the interior storage compartment, a door pivotally attached to the receptacle for closing the access when in a closed position, and the digital locking mechanism configured to move the lock between the locked position and the unlocked position, wherein the locked position comprises the door in a closed position, and the unlocked position comprises the door capable of being opened and closed;

opening the door and placing a package within the interior storage compartment of the receptacle and closing the door; and

moving, by the digital locking mechanism, of the lock from the unlocked position to the locked position to secure the placed package.