Abstract: A retractable and extendable mail box comprising a vertical support disposed adjacent and spaced from the side of a road, a horizontal support member mounted on the vertical support and extending toward the road, a platform hingedly connected to the horizontal support member, a mail box mounted on the platform, a spring and shock absorber to extend and retract the platform and associated mail box, and a semi-rigid pull member attached to the mail box and having a free end extending in a arc such that, in a retracted position of the mail box, the free end of the pull member is disposed at a position in the road or on the road's edge to which a snowbank or other physical barrier extends and blocks access to the retracted mail box, whereby, when the pull member is pulled downwardly, the platform and associated mail box are extended to an access position across the snowbank or other barrier.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved sliding hooded mail carrier tray for a conventional rural mailbox structure. The rural type mailbox has a rectangular bottom panel, a back panel extending from one end of the rectangular bottom panel, a U-shaped roof portion extending from opposite sides of the bottom panel and a swinging pivotal door at another end. The improvement consists of a transparent hooded mail carrier having a slightly smaller cross sectional configuration compared to a cross-sectional configuration of the mailbox. The hooded mail carrier comprises a rectangular bottom wall, a back wall extending from the back end of the rectangular bottom wall and a U-shaped hood portion extending from opposite sides of the rectangular bottom wall defining an enclosure with the front end of the hooded mail carrier having an opening for receipt of mail.

Abstract: A mail and parcel delivery system (10) for receiving postal service mail delivered, and to be delivered, by a governmental postal authority and for receiving direct delivery items and packages. The delivery system (10) includes a postal service mail receptacle (26) for receiving postal service mail, and a housing (12) defining a mail receptacle compartment (24) for receiving and housing the postal service mail receptacle (26). The housing (12) also defines a direct delivery compartment (58) for receiving direct delivery items and a package delivery compartment (76) for receiving large packages. In one embodiment the delivery system (10') includes an incoming mail receptacle (26') and an outgoing mail receptacle (98), both housed in the mail receptacle compartment (24').

Abstract: A single-door security rural mailbox having a front closure that can be accessed by the rural mail carrier and the owner of the mailbox from the same opening. The mailbox has a key operated locking mechanism for locking the closure. The owner of the mailbox locks and sets the closure in a set position allowing the mail carrier to open the closure once. The mail carrier then closes the closure with sufficient force so that the locking mechanism passes the set position and engages in a locked position. Thereafter, the closure can only be unlocked by the owner with a key who then sets the lock and closure for the next mail delivery where again the mail carrier can open and then shut the closure.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing mailbox mounting assembly. The device includes an anchor with a head and a hollow shank, a locking nut, a nail, and a coiled spring. The mailbox is centered on a support beam with its opposing side flanges spaced apart from each side of the beam. The anchor is inserted through one of the side flanges and the locking nut is secured to the anchor, holding the anchor in fixed position against the flange. The spring is placed around the shank of the anchor, between the locking nut and the beam. The nail is driven through the anchor into the beam. The mailbox is attached to the beam by a plurality of such devices, preferably two on each side. When struck, the mailbox slides laterally on the nails but is returned to its nominal position by the restoring action of the springs.

Abstract: The invention comprises a mail access section sufficiently dimensioned for receiving and supporting letters and packages for pickup and delivery by a mail carrier. A mail containment section supports the access section above the ground and receives the mail which is inserted through the access section. The combined length of the access section and containment section are selected so that someone cannot reach through the access section down into the mail containment section. However, the access section is appropriately dimensioned so that mail can be easily placed or tossed into the containment portion. In a alternative embodiment of the invention, a slidable table is located within the access section to provide additional storage space for outgoing packages allowing the structure to operate as a normal, non-security mailbox. In addition, a multi-user security mailbox is described that can be used for multiple residences.

Abstract: A designer mailbox with removable decorative side plates comprising a lower base plate in a generally rectangular configuration with parallel side edges and parallel front and rear edges; a semi-cylindrical roof panel having parallel lower edges located above the side edges of the base plate and extending from the front edge to the rear edge of the base plate; a pair of parallel planar interior side walls parallel with the side edges of the base plate and extending upwardly from the base plate at locations spaced inwardly from the side edges, the interior side walls having upper edges formed integrally with the roof panel interiorly of its lower edges; a pair of parallel exterior side walls extending upwardly from the side edges of the base plate to the lower edges of the roof panel and spaced a distance outwardly from the interior wall to thereby form generally rectangular spaces between the interior and exterior side walls; an opening in each exterior side wall extending from a horizontal lower edge paralle

Abstract: A durable plastic mailbox for receiving mail has a removable inner container thus permitting the container to be removed from the exterior casing to empty the mail at another location. The mailbox has attachment grooves on one side and top that can engage with attachment ribs on the other side and bottom thus permitting a plurality of mailboxes to be stacked together. The mailbox has an exterior casing, substantially oblong in shape with an open front, and an inner container that fits within the exterior casing and is pivotable about internal protrusions from end walls of the casing, and is removable from the casing. A locking system retains the inner container in an upright position within the exterior casing.

Abstract: This invention is a combination mailbox indicia display and depository that is adapted to be mounted on the top, curved dome portion of a mailbox. The depository has two inwardly and upwardly disposed sides that are made from a material having a memory so that the upper edges of such side portions can be spread apart to insert informational material and to hold the same securely in place. Indicia display is in the form of elongated panels and are preferably removably mounted on the depository so that seasonal symbols and other message indicia can be displayed as desired.

Abstract: A new and improved movable mailbox tray is provided for a mailbox. The movable mailbox tray is in the form of a trolley that rides on a plurality of rollers for providing a rolling contact between the movable tray and the mailbox. The rollers permit the movable trolley to move easily into and out of a mailbox. The movable trolley can also include a fence for retaining mail on the tray. A kit for converting a conventional mailbox into one with a movable tray includes a movable trolley, a first spring for connecting the movable trolley to a hinged mailbox door, and an opposing second spring for connecting the opposite end of the trolley to a fixed wall of the mailbox. When the mailbox door is opened, the first spring will pull the trolley partially out from the interior of the mailbox. The opposing second spring will pull the trolley back into the interior of the mailbox when the door is closed.

Abstract: A gang mail box for an apartment building comprising an outer frame and an inner frame. The inner frame is pivotally connected to the outer frame which is secured to a wall of the building. A number of individual mail boxes corresponding to the number of apartments are mounted on and pivotal with the inner frame. These individual mail boxes are shaped so when the inner frame is pivoted, the tops of the individual mail boxes are exposed so the mail carrier can insert mail in them. Each mail box is provided with a hinged door having an individual mail box lock. A tempered steel security bar is provided to cover and conceal the tenants' locks on the individual mail boxes to prevent theft. This bar is hinged to the inner frame and is provided with a padlock for securing the bar in place.

Abstract: A mailbox having an extension spring located inside the mailbox body between the door and body interior which allows the mailbox door to remain open when it is pivoted below the mailbox floor while at the same time automatically allowing the door to close when it is pivoted above the floor level.

Abstract: A ground-mounted upright mailbox is provided for receiving and storing therein postal material such as letters and variously-sized packages. The mailbox includes a lower mailbox portion which further defines an inner storage compartment, an upper mailbox portion attached to the lower mailbox portion, and a mounting pipe for securing the mailbox into the ground. A laterally deformable lower bellows member is integrally attached to the mailbox subjacent the lower mailbox portion, the lower bellows member allows the mailbox to laterally deflect from its normal upright position when the mailbox is struck by a physical object. Furthermore, the lower bellows member maintains the mailbox in its deflected position until the mailbox is manually righted. In an alternate embodiment, the upright mailbox is secured to the ground by a plurality of mounting pipes. Each mounting pipe includes a flexible, deformable bellows member protruding from one end and which is adapted for attachment to the lower mailbox portion.

Abstract: A mailbox decorative attachment being a flat sheet which is cut out to form a pictorial or silouetted representation and which is adhered to the curved outer surface of the mailbox and in which a portion of the pictorial representation projects outside, and may be under, above or around the mailbox configuration to form a substantial three-dimensional part of the picture.

Abstract: A rural mailbox which has an access door provided with a concealed counterweight to assure that the door closes after use is disclosed. Optionally, the lower surface of the mailbox floor may have a magnet secured to it and positioned so as to contact the counterweight when the door is fully open to temporarily hold the door open. The door further optionally has a covered slot for mail and may be securely locked. The box in one embodiment has an auxiliary covered receptacle mounted on one side to hold mail to be picked up.

Abstract: A cover is provided to envelope a regulation mailbox. A cutout is provided in the cover to permit the indicating flag of the mailbox to pass through a side portion of the cover and a cutout is made in the bottom portion of the cover to permit the same to substantially surround the mailbox post. Securing devices, such as snaps, are provided to secure the cover to the mailbox. Side portions may display indicia, such as for indicating the name and address of the owner of the mailbox as well as decorative designs or patterns. The indicia and designs may be stitched onto the cover. Skirts may be provided integral with the two side portions allowing more space to receive further indicia and designs.

Abstract: A security mailbox including an upper compartment for conventional and a lower compartment for secured deposit of mail. An interior partition includes a rear portion movable about a hinged connection to a fixed, front portion between a horizontal position, wherein the partition substantially entirely separates the upper and lower compartments, and a lowered position, wherein the movable portion extends into the lower compartment and permits mail deposited in conventionl fashion in the upper compartment to fall into the lower compartment from which it may be removed only by authorized persons through a normally locked door. the apparatus is characterized by the absence of any structure inside the housing which could interfere with normal deposit of mail, and by a lockable support permitting movement of the portion of the partition from its lowered to its horizontal position only by authorized persons.

Abstract: A mailbox post is arranged for enhanced illumination visibility, including a central cavity housing an elongate bulb member longitudinally aligned relative to the housing positioned rearwardly of spaced transparent windows configured to direct a message. A photo-cell is mounted exteriorly of the post to effect actuation of the bulb.

Abstract: A security mailbox, to be used to securely and inconspicuously hold incoming mail while providing an accessible means for a mailman to pick up outgoing mail. The mailbox includes a readily accessible lower compartment and a locked upper compartment, accessible for mail delivery by a flapped opening and having a lockable back door, which are separated and defined by an angled dividing wall that remains substantially hidden when the lower compartment is accessed.

Abstract: A mailbox assembly is disclosed comprising a mailbox body having a roof, parallel sidewalls (6), and a front door (4). The assembly further includes a flag housing assembly (8) for outgoing mail indication, attachable to one side of the mailbox body, and a second housing assembly (10) attachable to one side of the mailbox body for incoming mail indication. The flag assembly (10) is pivotally attachable to either of the mailbox body sidewalls, at the election and preference of the user, and comprises actuation means (40) responsive to pivotal opening of the mailbox door, and a pivot post member (42) for insertion through co-aligned apertures in the mailbox body and door, whereby pivotally attaching the flag housing assembly to one of the mailbox sides and pivotally attaching the door to the mailbox body.

Abstract: A decorative mailbox cover adapted to fit a standard street mounted postal box wherein the decorative cover is formed of a flexible sheet, and wherein the cover provides for a cut out guide on its inner left side for the proper positioning of a slot to be fitted over the mailbox flag and adhesive strips positioned in a longitudinal direction along its inner edges for securing the cover to the mailbox.

Abstract: A mailbox having a mail receiving end, a mail storage end, and an inclined intermediate body portion therebetween. The mail receiving end has an outgoing mail holding shelf provided therein and a pivotably attached door attached thereto. The mail storage end holds the received mail therein and includes a lockable mail access door for removal of the mail therefrom. The back side of the mail storage end is flat and includes an upper extending flange, such construction allowing for placement of the mailbox on a conventional mailbox post. The inclined body portion is long enough and angled to thereby prevent removal of mail by reaching into the mail receiving end.

Abstract: A conduit member includes a forward first, second, and rear second section connected by a "U" shaped central section to transport a vehicle member between the forward and rear sections about a track utilizing a pulley system to effect reciprocation of the vehicle member within the conduit member. The vehicle member includes a bottom cavity for receiving newspapers therewithin aligned with a lower slot within a forward wall of the forward section. An upper mail cavity is mounted within the vehicle aligned with an upper door for receiving mail therewithin. A cam track mounted upon the vehicle effects reciprocation of an indicator flag within the forward section to provide visual indication of mail to be picked up by an associated mail carrier.

Abstract: A mailbox has a container with an inner chamber, and a hollow insert movable in said chamber between an inserted position in which the insert is located inside the container and an extended position in which at least a portion of the insert is located outside of the container and exposed to a user.

Abstract: A mail box according to the teachings of the present invention is shown as including a rectangular box with a receiver's door side-hinged and locked by a combination lock, to and within the frame of a bottom-hinged delivery door. The bottom-hinged delivery door is locked at the top and side and opened only by a delivery person with a special release tool which is thrust into a side chamber of the unit and forces a latch gate sideways which draws a latch from the side of the door and simultaneously transmits the force of the entrance, through tangential movement of a release rod, to an L-shaped connector to a release cable which extends through rollers to the top latch of the delivery door. Spring action automatically closes both latches. Supplemental brace hinges are included to enable the delivery door to be held ridgidly horizontal when open.

Abstract: A security mail receptacle having a mail-receiving portion 1 mounted on a hollow support pole 1a is provided. The mail-receiving portion 1 contains an opening 11 on the inside bottom thereof through which delivered mail falls into the hollow support pole 1a. A tray 4 inside the mail-receiving portion 1, which is separated by a dividing wall 2 from the opening 11, holds outgoing mail for pickup by a Postal Service worker. The delivered mail is retrieved by the resident merely by unlocking a door 15 on the back side of the hollow support pole 1a. The hollow support pole 1a may be mounted on the ground or on a concrete support base 7. Optional handles, one 19 on the mailbox door 9 and the other 20 on the mailbox 1, are provided to aid in opening and closing the mailbox door 9 and for locking said door with a padlock 21 to prevent delivery when mail has been forwarded.

Abstract: A mailbox protector comprising a deformable cover adapted to be attached to at least the upwardly facing surface of a mailbox; a reservoir inside the cover adapted to confine a liquid, non-toxic dye; and ports adapted for expelling dye from the reservoir upon the application of a crushing blow to the cover.

Abstract: A mailbox support post assembly (13) comprising an elongated hollow member (15) consisting of two identical parts (20, 22), each part (20, 22) having a cross-section characterized by a bulged central portion (24, 26) and flanges (28, 30 and 32, 34) extending from each side of the bulged central portion (24, 26). A mailbox support portion (40, 42) extending outwardly and upwardly from the elongated hollow member (15) for receiving a mailbox. An anchor shaft (70) may be clamped between the bulged central portions (24, 26).

Abstract: The invention is directed toward an improved mailbox that allows the recipient of mail to view from a distance the incoming mail chamber and determine if there is mail to pick up. In addition, the mailbox comes with a lockable incoming chamber and a protection flange that keeps out the hands of those that may tamper with the mail.

Abstract: A real estate sales aid is disclosed in the form of a three-dimensional house which may be mounted next to the "For Sale" sign on property for sale. It includes a first chamber containing sheets providing information as to the house for sale. This chamber is accessible to the public through a hinged door. A second locked chamber is provided into which a reply card may be inserted through a mail slot.

Abstract: A clad mailbox includes a main housing and at least one side panel, a bottom panel and an end panel. The side panel forms an arcuate roof over the bottom panel and, together, the side panel, bottom panel, and end panel form the mailbox enclosure. A lid may be pivotably mounted to the side panel or bottom panel for opening and closing the mailbox. A track is mounted on the outer face of one of the panels of the housing. Cladding is received on and positively retained to that panel. More particularly, the cladding includes a guide groove cooperatively shaped to be received over and engaged by the track so as to hold the cladding in proper alignment and position on the panel.

Abstract: A decorative natural wood covering structure overlying an out of doors exposed mailbox.

Abstract: A tray-type mailbox insert for use in delivering and removing mail from a mailbox formed of a foldable blank including a bottom panel, side panels, and an end panel and having locking panels and locking tabs to secure the insert in a tray-like configuration.

Abstract: A receptacle adapted to be mounted on the exterior of a mailbox for protection and retention of articles of mail comprising: a housing open at the bottom and of a generally triangular shape in cross-section having front and rear walls pivotally connected at their upper edges; sidewalls laterally depending from each edge of the front and sidewalls, the front and rear walls being biased to a first position, wherein the sidewalls depending from the front wall overlap the sidewalls depending from corresponding edges of the rear wall; and, projections depending interiorly laterally of the front and rear walls in resilient engagement for detachably securing an article of mail in suspended position within the housing.

Abstract: A rectangular paper or plastic film sheet has a pressure sensitive backing for sticking onto the curved top and sides of a regulation mailbox. The front face is imprinted with decorative graphics arranged to be seen from both sides. Below each graphic is imprinted an elongate address bar for receiving stick-on letters and numbers supplied in a color contrasting with the address bar for enhanced visibility. Partially cut through portions of the cover may be torn away to admit the indicating flag. The system is adapted for application without tools or special skills and enough letters and numbers are provided for identification of the mailbox as recommended by postal authorities.

Abstract: An intrustion-secure mail box is described as being particularly suited for rural and suburban delivery. A pair of vertically offset doors are provided, through the upper of which mail intended for delivery is inserted, and through the lower of which--lockably openable by the user--the delivered mail is retrieved. A "slide" arrangement is incorporated internal of the mail box--both to direct the delivered mail inserted through the upper door towards the lower door opening, and to act as a bar to prevent an unauthorized retrieval by a person trying to gain access by a reaching through the upper door to get at mail acculumations aggregated at the area of the locked lower door.

Abstract: A mailbox designed for storage of mail in a secure lower portion of the housing. The mailbox has a swingable mail shelf to divide the housing into upper and lower compartments with the mail shelf being moved from a substantially horizontal mail rest position to a downwardly inclined main dump position.

Abstract: A removable rural or suburban mailbox cover is characterized by a flexible covering having messages or images imprinted on one side. The cover is constructed with cut outs so as not to interfere with the delivery flag, hinges and latching device of the mailbox. The cover is affixed to the mailbox through magnetic strips or by fastening devices inserted through holes in the cover.

Abstract: A toy mailbox includes a mounting member formed as an "L" shaped rod threadedly mounting the mailbox at an upper end and including a "C" shaped clamp for securing the mailbox to door frame portions of an interior door frame. The toy mailbox further includes a base with a battery housing and switch therein with fiber optic illumination members directed upwardly through a transparent post for selective illumination of the post as an alert when the mailbox is secured interiorly of a dwelling. A transparent base member is securable to the mailbox housing for securement to the post.

Abstract: An outgoing mail receptacle for a rural mailbox wherein a container is positioned within the mailbox and supported by a leaf spring having one end connected to the mailbox door so that when the mailbox door is opened, the container is moved outwardly from the mailbox to expose the outgoing mail in the container.

Abstract: Apparatus that enables easy retrieval of mail from a rural mailbox is disclosed. A horizontally disposed mail-supporting member, which may be the bottom of the box itself or an insertable tray, is arranged to be tilted by pivoting around a transverse axis so that the rear of the member may be placed in an elevated position with respect to the front, thus allowing mail located on the member to slide downward and outward. Mail-catching means in the form of a wall around the periphery of and on the inside of the door holds the mail in position for grasping and keeps it from falling to the ground. A stop means such as a limited-motion hinge is provided to limit downward movement of the door. For the tilting mailbox embodiment, the mailbox is pivotally mounted on a platform so as to allow the entire box to be tilted downward and forward.

Abstract: A security mailbox is provided having a housing with a lower storage compartment having a lockable door for the retraction of mail and an upper door for the introduction of mail. The upper portion of the mailbox is further provided with a sloping slanted top, a tray mounted in the interior for the placement of outgoing mail, a restricted throat with a curved lower portion leading into the storage area for the introduction of mail so that the mail is deposited into the storage department and can only be retrieved through the lower lockable door. A conventional manually rotatable flag is attached on the outside of the mailbox. A method of mounting multiple security mailboxes is also disclosed.

Abstract: A mailbox for receiving delivered mail includes a housing and a post for mounting the box to the ground. A door is connected to a shaft rotatably secured to the bottom edge of a door opening, and the door extends beyond the opening into a tail portion. A part of the housing floor is formed from a resilient material so that the door is normally stopped thereby upon opening. Should the door be forced further, the material will yield to allow the door to swing below the box to prevent damage. A security latch, hidden beneath the housing, includes a leaf spring normally positioned behind the door tail portion to prevent its opening. The spring may be moved into a slot in the door shaft, where the spring cooperates with a notch in the door to permit its opening. Upon closing of the door, the spring is released to its normal position, whereupon the door is again held shut. The flag target is carried at the end of a flag shaft that is rotatably and slidably secured to the housing interior.

Abstract: A mailbox for receiving delivered mail includes a housing and a post for mounting the box to the ground. A door is connected to a shaft rotatably secured to the bottom edge of a door opening, and the door extends beyond the opening into a tail portion. A part of the housing floor is formed from a resilient material so that the door is normally stopped thereby upon opening. Should the door be forced further, the material will yield to allow the door to swing below the box to prevent damage. A security latch, hidden beneath the housing, includes a leaf spring normally positioned behind the door tail portion to prevent its opening. The spring may be moved into a slot in the door shaft, where the spring cooperates with a notch in the door to permit its opening. Upon closing of the door, the spring is released to its normal position, whereupon the door is again held shut. The flag target is carried at the end of a flag shaft that is rotatably and slidably secured to the housing interior.

Abstract: A novel mailbox is disclosed. The mailbox utilizes a sliding mail tray which slides out of the mailbox as the mailbox door is opened and is returned to the interior of the mailbox when the mailbox door is closed. The mailbox may also include an overhanging roof portion.

Abstract: A mailbox signalling apparatus for rural-type mailboxes to indicate when a mailbox has been serviced. The signalling apparatus comprises a base for supporting a mailbox, a first indicator member support means on the base for supporting an indicator member toward the front end of the mailbox, a second indicator member support means on the base for supporting an indicator member toward the back end of the mailbox, an indicator member selectively supported by one of the first or second indicator member support means for movement between a first, stand-by position and a second, signalling position, and actuating means on the base for actuating the indicator member for movement from the first, stand-by position to the second, signalling position when the mailbox is opened.

Abstract: A display mailbox for displaying text or graphics on an exterior surface thereof comprising a mailbox enclosure having a recess positioned on its exterior surface bounded by a perimeter wall and a backing wall. At least two flanges are located on the sides of the recess, each flange having an inwardly facing surface projecting over the recess. An insert of sheet material having the text or graphics printed thereon fits into the recess and behind the inwardly facing surfaces of the flanges whereby it is securely held and can be seen on the exterior surface of te mailbox.

Abstract: A letter box includes a housing having a pivotable door having a letter inlet and an inlet cover pivotably covering the inlet, and an indicating device coupled to the inlet cover in the manner that when a letter is inserted from the inlet into the box the device will be actuated to indicated that there is a letter in the box.

Abstract: A mailbox insert includes a rigid plate adapted to be supported above the floor of the interior of the mailbox. The plate is composed of a rigid, corrugated material having a plurality of ridges and valleys. A plurality of legs depend from the underside of the plate to support the articles of mail resting above the plate. A plurality of holes or openings in the plate to provide drainage and ventilation.

Abstract: A mailbox for receiving delivered mail includes a housing and a post for mounting the box to the ground. A door is connected to a shaft rotatably secured to the bottom edge of a door opening, and the door extends beyond the opening into a tail portion. A part of the housing floor is formed from a resilient material so that the door is normally stopped thereby upon opening. Should the door be forced further, the material will yield to allow the door to swing below the box to prevent damage. A security latch, hidden beneath the housing, includes a leaf spring normally positioned behind the door tail portion to prevent its opening. The spring may be moved into a slot in the door shaft, where the spring cooperates with a notch in the door to permit its opening. Upon closing of the door, the spring is released to its normal position, whereupon the door is again held shut. The flag target is carried at the end of a flag shaft that is rotatably and slidably secured to the housing interior.