Abstract: A secured parcel delivery system for creating temporary access through a door for delivered parcels includes a door. The door has a portal aperture which extends therethrough. The portal aperture includes a perimeter edge. A panel is pivotably attached to the perimeter edge. The panel is positionable in an open condition which exposes the portal aperture or in a closed condition which covers the portal aperture. A driver mechanism actuates the panel alternatingly between the open condition and the closed condition. A locking mechanism is attached to and releasably locks the panel when the panel is in the closed condition. The locking mechanism is actuated to an unlocked condition which allows the panel to be moved to the open condition or a locked condition which restrains the panel in the closed condition.

Abstract: A specially designed package receiving device configured to facilitate automatic receipt and notification of packages while preventing unauthorized ingress and egress there-through. The package receiving device includes a frame affixed to an existing support surface, an access panel pivotally coupled to the frame and being selectively rotated along clockwise and counterclockwise directions, a handle affixed to an upper exterior section of the access panel, a plurality of slats pivotally affixed to an interior side of the frame, a box for mail pivotally coupled to the interior side of the upper panel, and a dampening mechanism for providing greater resistive force against rotation of the access panel in the clockwise direction and less resistive force against rotation of the access panel in the counterclockwise direction.

Abstract: The disclosure provides an innovative delivery receptacle for receiving objects (such as parcels and mail) deposited into the receptacle and securely storing them once deposited. The receptacle allows for the orientation of the position of an input opening and delivery door for a delivering party, such as a courier, to deposit the objects in the receptacle to be changeable with respect to the orientation of an access opening and access door for a receiving party to remove the objects. In one embodiment, the delivery door also restricts access to the deposited objects while they are deposited into the receptacle. The receptacle may be a stand-alone receptacle or it may be a structure-mounted unit, such as installed in a wall or other structure. The receptacle may comprise a separate first and second sections that may be shipped separately and assembled with the desired orientation.

Abstract: The delivery object reception device includes, at a building 4, a first plate-shaped member 7 provided so as to be turnable between a first position P1 and a second position P2, a first turning unit 13 configured to perform the turning, a second plate-shaped member 8 provided so as to be turnable between a third position P3 and a fourth position P4, a second turning unit 14 configured to perform the turning, third to sixth plate-shaped members 9 to 12 provided so as to be drivable between formation positions for forming a storage space 18 and non-formation positions, a plate member drive unit 15 configured to perform the driving, and a delivery object transfer unit 16 configured to transfer a delivery object 3 placed on the first plate-shaped member 7 located at the second position P2, onto the second plate-shaped member 8 located at the fourth position P4.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method for receiving packages through the mail when a person is not home. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a system for a person to facilitate safe and secure delivery to a receiving module without needing to be present. In some aspects, an administrator may control the module from a portable smart device or other wireless device. The receiving module may be operated digitally, manually, virtually, or combinations thereof. The settings of the receiving module may be controlled by a recipient, delivery service, sender, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the receiving module may be installable on a garage door.

Abstract: A receiving and pick-up arrangement for postal items with a foldable housing. When the arrangement is not in use, the housing can be folded up to save space. For this purpose, the side walls are foldable, so that the side walls are arranged or stowed between the top wall and the bottom wall in the folded up state. In the folded up state, the arrangement does not have a receiving chamber for receiving postal items. In operation, the housing is unfolded. In the unfolded state of the housing, the postal item can be placed into the receiving chamber then formed between the side walls via the first opening or the second opening and removed again at a later stage. Also, a method for receiving and a method for picking up a postal item with such an arrangement.

Abstract: The present invention relates a package securing system that protects delivered packages from theft. The system comprising a frame that defines an interior region receives a mat. The frame having a recessed chamber. A securing rail is operationally related to the frame and repositionable. A security tarp having at least a portion secured to the frame and at least a portion secured by the securing rail, the security tarp is stored in the recessed chamber. When a package is placed on the mat the package is secured by repositioning the securing rail extending the security tarp over the package. A camera establishes an optical motion free zone around the package and data communicates a secure package notification to predefined recipients when motion is detected, a package delivery or package delivery exception occurs by a package delivery person, or in response to a space-available request.

Abstract: Package receiving apparatus including a housing and a net retracting element mounted within the housing. An elongated flexible net has a first end attached to the net retracting element within the housing and a second end extending through an opening in the housing with a pull-bar or locking-bar attached thereto external to the housing. A locking mechanism is mounted on one of an exterior surface of the housing or an exterior surface of an adjacent structure and the locking mechanism is constructed to receive and lock the pull-bar or locking-bar with the net extended.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments include an anti-theft system. The anti-theft system includes a netting, a male connector linkage, and a network of female connectors. The netting includes a set of safety loops along the periphery of the netting. The male connector linkage includes at least two male connectors connected by a linkage. The male connector linkage is woven through the safety loops then connected to individual female connectors within the network of female connectors. The network of female connectors is embedded within an opening on a door. The anti-theft system is operable to cling or secure a package to a door in order to prevent the theft of said package.

Abstract: A self-locking parcel delivery apparatus and method includes a tamper-resistant compartment beneath a lid of a porch bench seat and insulated for protecting delivered parcels. The apparatus includes a lid that is held open magnetically until proactively released to close and lock (such as by a delivery person) or by a remote user via a primary software application running on a mobile communications device. The apparatus may be operated in conjunction or cooperation with a supplemental software application associated with a video motion detection system so that a remote user can authenticate a supposed delivery person and then, using another software app, activate a remote delivery container to be made ready to receive a delivered parcel.

Abstract: A system for displaying a product is disclosed. The system includes a wall having a recess therein and a display structure that defines the recess. The display structure extends through a front surface of the wall and includes a frame having a top panel, a bottom panel, and two side panels. The top and bottom panels are longer than the side panels. The system further includes a plurality of modular display units disposed within the display structure. Each modular display unit extends from the bottom panel to the top panel. At least a first one of the modular display units includes a frame open to a front exterior of the display structure and at least a second one of the modular display units is not open to the front exterior of the display structure. The system further includes a plurality of display elements disposed within the plurality of display units.

Abstract: A secure in-door parcel receiving apparatus may be installed into an aperture of a barrier such as a garage door in order to receive delivered parcels to the interior of a residence or other location so as to avoid package theft and environmental hazards parcels may be exposed to if left outdoors when delivered. An interior frame is connected to an inside of the barrier within the barrier aperture. An exterior frame is connected to the interior frame and supports a hinged closure. A locking mechanism releasably secures the closure in a closed position, occluding the aperture, until a parcel is to be delivered, whereupon a parcel delivery worker may provide input to a user interface, such as a combination lock, of the locking mechanism in order to disengage the locking mechanism, open the closure, and deliver the parcel through the aperture into the interior location behind the barrier.

Abstract: The embodiments herein provide a secure package delivery and pick-up system. The system comprises a security door with several collapsible storage compartments for accommodating packages meant for delivery or pick-up. The size of the compartments are configured to accommodate packages of different sizes and weights. The system enables secure delivery and return pick-up of packages at unmanned location by using security measures such as electronic key generation, biometric identification, RFID, video cameras. The user is facilitated to monitor the delivery and pick-up activity remotely through a mobile application downloaded on the computing device. The system is easy to install and provides protection of the packages form theft or damages due to weather conditions. The system enables user to share secure electronic keys with other users for a predetermined duration for accessing the building through the secure door and for usage of the storage compartments.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to an online ordering/takeout system for customers to place orders with a variety of merchants, where a customer can let a merchant know that the customer is on their way, and in response, the status of the order is updated in a locker-tracking system. In an illustrative example, a customer device may allow for customers to communicate an in-transit status to the merchant. A merchant device may, for example, allow a customer to gain access to a locker that stores the customer's order. In response to milestone events, such as placing a food item in a locker or the customer indicating they are “on their way,” the system may update a status of the locker to reflect a current status of the locker/order. Some embodiments may advantageously provide confirmation to the merchant that the customer is in route to the merchant's location.

Abstract: A package receiving system includes a shoot extending through a wall of a building from an exterior of the building to an interior of the building; a first door positioned on the exterior of the building providing access to the shoot; a second door positioned on the interior of the building and providing access to the interior of the building; and a conveyer belt positioned at a bottom of the shoot to transport a package from the exterior to the interior; the second door is to open to allow the package to enter into the interior.

Abstract: A locker configured to store a package is disclosed. The locker includes a storage compartment, a door to the storage compartment, and a securing component attached to the storage compartment. The securing component actuates between a secured position and an unsecured position.

Abstract: A protective storage system comprising: i) a container configured to receive and hold a delivered item; ii) a lid coupled to the container and configured to cover an opening of the container; and ii) a base on which the container is securely mounted. The base is configured to be securely connected to a structure. The protective storage system further comprises iv) a temperature control system for heating or cooling the delivered item; and v) a control module for controlling the opening and closing of the lid and for providing a user remote access and control capabilities.

Abstract: A secure package receptacle is a combination outdoor furniture and locking package storage. Outdoor furniture is often placed near a home entry and provides useful seating and does not draw attention to the locking package storing. A seat portion provides a locking storage area for bulky packages and a backrest portion provides a second locking storage area for flat packages. Each locking storage area is lockable using a common padlock, pushbutton lock lockable by a delivery driver and unlockable by a homeowner using a key, or any other lock unlockable by a homeowner. A base of the secure package receptacle includes space for solid or liquid weight to make it difficult to remove. Features are included to secure the secure package receptacle to a wall.

Abstract: A receiving and pick-up device for postal items (2) having a housing (7) comprising a receiving chamber (8) and comprising a base part (9) and an extension part (11), which is arranged adjustably relative to the base part (9) along an adjustment axis (X), wherein a closable exterior opening (16) is formed on a first front face (15) of the base part (9) and a closable interior opening (18) is formed on a second front face (17) of the extension part (11) being opposite the first front face (15) in the direction of the adjustment axis (X), and having an adjustment device (29), which is designed for adjustment of the volume of the receiving chamber (8) such that the extension part (11) can be adjusted along the adjustment axis (X) between a first position, in which the receiving chamber (8) has a first volume, and a second position, in which the receiving chamber (8) has a second volume enlarged relative to the first volume, and having a deposit band (23) delimiting a floor side of the receiving chamber (8).

Abstract: A self-locking parcel delivery apparatus and method includes a tamper-resistant compartment beneath a bench seat and insulated for protecting delivered parcels. The apparatus includes a lid that is held open magnetically until proactively released to close and locked by a remote user via a software application running on a mobile communications device. The apparatus may be operated in conjunction or cooperation with a software application associated with a video motion detection system so that a remote user can authenticate a supposed delivery person and then, using another software app, activate a remote delivery container to be made ready to receive a delivered parcel.

Abstract: The embodiments herein provide a secure package delivery and pick-up system. The system comprises a security door with several collapsible storage compartments for accommodating packages meant for delivery or pick-up. The size of the compartments are configured to accommodate packages of different sizes and weights. The system enables secure delivery and return pick-up of packages at unmanned location by using security measures such as electronic key generation, biometric identification, RFID, video cameras. The user is facilitated to monitor the delivery and pick-up activity remotely through a mobile application downloaded on the computing device. The system is easy to install and provides protection of the packages form theft or damages due to weather conditions. The system enables user to share secure electronic keys with other users for a predetermined duration for accessing the building through the secure door and for usage of the storage compartments.

Abstract: A collapsible delivery storage assembly includes a panel that is mounted to an exterior wall of a building and the panel has a recess therein. A storage unit is movably coupled to the panel and the storage unit is positionable in a collapsed position having the storage unit being positioned in the recess. The storage unit is positionable in a deployed position such that the storage unit defines a box for receiving a package delivery. A door is hingedly coupled to the storage unit to close the box. A combination lock is coupled to the door and the combination lock releasably engages the storage unit when the door closes the box. Thus, the combination lock restricts access to the package in the box.

Abstract: A movable barrier operator comprising a motor, communication circuitry configured to receive a control signal and communicate with a door lock associated with a passageway door, and a controller. The controller is configured to authenticate the control signal, wherein authenticating the control signal includes associating the signal with a first level of access or a second level of access. The controller is further configured to communicate with the door lock via the communication circuitry to permit opening of the passageway door in response to associating the control signal with the first level of access and inhibit opening of the passageway door in response to associating the control signal with the second level of access. The controller is configured to cause the motor to open the movable barrier regardless of association of the control signal with the first level of access or the second level of access.

Abstract: A collapsible folding container to provide a safe and secure location for delivered packages, comprising a base panel that is securably attached to a base frame, the base frame that is vertically mountable on a structure that is permanently hinged to the rear edges of a left side rear panel, a right side rear panel, a lid, and a bottom plate, a front panel permanently hinged to the front edges of the left side front panel and right side front panel, the left side rear panel permanently hinged to the rear edge of the left side front panel, and the right side rear panel permanently hinged to the rear edge of the right side front panel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a locker and system for secured delivery of goods to consumer wherein the locker may be 1) positioned within a building or home such that one door is accessible outside the building or home and a second door is accessible within the building or home; 2) positioned on a property, potentially near a curbside and accessible to a delivery vehicle from a street; or 3) positioned at a commercial location such that one door is accessible to the public and a second door is accessible to the workers at the commercial location. Delivery may occur via drone or human with selected access given to the designated locker door. In accordance with the foregoing objects, an embodiment of the present invention generally comprises a service provider, a service client, an operator (seller or inspector), an end user (buyer or end user), and at least one chamber having at least one remotely controlled electronic door in communication with a service provider, service client, and/or operator.

Abstract: A robotic system is disclosed. The robotic system includes a robot. A module is coupled to the robot. An item is disposed within the module. The module includes a release door configured to be selectively opened and closed. When the release door is selectively opened, the item is dropped from the module.

Abstract: An accessible electronic door entry system that includes an outdoor panel that comprises a capturing microphone, an analog audio interface that digitizes sound, a threshold detector that discriminates the quality of the sound, acoustic models that represent the pronunciation of phonemes, a phoneme generator, contexts that represent the assembly of words and/or phrases and grammatical rules, a recognizer that compares the phonemes, an analyzer of words and/or phrases, a text-to-speech or TTS converter, an analog audio interface that converts the digital signals into analog ones, a communications bus of the electronic door entry system, an electronic door entry system interface that connects the bus and transmits the detected commands to the terminals and establishes the audio and/or video communication, a loudspeaker that plays the audio signals, an agenda, a RAM memory, a Flash memory and a CPU or processor that controls and manages the rest of the elements of said panel.

Abstract: A mailbox comprises a box body with a door having a lock, a mailbox unlocking code input device for inputting an unlocking code to unlock the mailbox, a communication module for communicating with a remote management terminal, a storage module at the mailbox or the remote management terminal for storing one or more preset mailbox unlocking codes, and a processor at the mailbox or the remote management terminal for identifying whether the input mailbox unlocking code matches the one or more preset mailbox unlocking codes, and issuing a mailbox unlocking instruction if matching. The processor comprises a mailbox unlocking code management circuit used to invalidate the matched mailbox unlocking code after the mailbox is unlocked, generate a new mailbox unlocking code when no valid mailbox unlocking code is currently available, and store the new mailbox unlocking code in the storage. The mailbox can safely, conveniently and automatically receive and/or send mail.

Abstract: An expandable large package receiver that is placed on a vertical support outside of a business or residence. The expandable large package receiver has a vertical support. A vertical 4-sided frame is mounted on the vertical support. A pair of 4-sided mounts insert within the vertical 4-sided frame. A scissor connector connects the 4-sided mounts to each other when placed within the vertical 4-sided frame. A pair of 4-sided doors, each door attaches to each 4-sided mount. A pair of expandable domed structures, each domed structure attaches to each 4-sided mount via a set of pivots. And, a pair of handles, each handle attaches to each pivot, and each handle moves each pivot in a manner that opens and closes each domed structure.

Abstract: A parcel guard with expandable mesh basket receptacle is a safeguard mechanism for receiving and keeping packages comprising of a scalable, flexible, collapsible net basket made of wire mesh, metallic chain links, composite material or any combination of material suitable to create a shaped net basket and a means of locking mechanism to deter theft temptation. The flexible net basket of this apparatus allows parcels of various size, shape and weight to be placed inside the net basket and securely locked away as part of a theft prevention mechanism that prevents unauthorized removal of the parcels.

Abstract: An interior mailbox, hard-mounted to the exterior door or window, designed to capture and to hold the mail dropped by the mail carrier from the outside in, through the cutout in said exterior door or window, comprising of two primary components, the container and the adjustment part, made to adjust the width of the bottom of the mailbox to accommodate the varying mounting surfaces and to prevent the mail from falling out of the mailbox.

Abstract: A system for the delivery and secure receipt of packages from unmanned vehicles to improve security and protection of the packages upon delivery. A UAV receptacle provides a water-protected interior to protect a package. The UAV receptacle includes a door in one side that allows a reception tray to extend out and back in, and which locks to protect the package so received. The UAV receptacle detects a drone in proximity. Upon confirming that delivery is for the UAV receptacle, the reception tray extends to a reception position. A sensor detects the package on the reception tray upon delivery from the drone. The reception tray is of a mesh material to reduce water retention. The UAV receptacle retracts the reception tray and closes a door to seal the package within the UAV receptacle. The UAV receptacle may notify user devices that the package has been received.

Abstract: A system and method for managing the delivery of goods. The system and method particularly provides for manifesting and controlling route-based delivery of orders or packages from a vendor to one or more locations accessible by customers. The locations may include automated, self-service vending machines and/or will-call lockers, under the control of a system (ideally centralized and automated) that can receive and actively manage manifest information.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include a folding shelf intended for attachment to a door having a mail slot. The shelf is pivotably attached below the mail slot by a support and moved from its storage position to its operative position by a chain attached to the door by a fastener. The chain is attached to the shelf near that part of the shelf that is distal from the door. Using embodiments of the present invention, items inserted through the door are retained on the shelf rather than fall to the floor, and the door remains functional when the shelf is in the operative position.

Abstract: A toy mailbox for children includes a storage unit and a media processing mechanism. The storage unit includes a door member for closeably opening the storage unit and an ejection slot configured on a portion of the storage unit. The media processing mechanism is coupled to the storage unit, such that the media processing mechanism is capable of dispensing a media sheet having data content printed thereon, into the storage unit through the ejection slot. Opening the storage unit enables children to access the media sheet from within the storage unit. The media processing mechanism is also capable of printing the data content on the media sheet prior to dispensing the media sheet into the storage unit.

Abstract: A wireless key (6), capable of transmitting an ultra-low frequency radio wave signal (5), is used to gain access to a secure receptacle (1), the wireless key (6) and receptacle (1) comprising a system to ensure the secure transfer or delivery of items between parties typically engaging in e-commerce. The wireless key (6) possesses a means to discriminate against the unauthorized entry of the receptacle, such as through the use of buttons to enter a secure access code. The wireless key (6) accepts an access code entry from the user desiring entry to the receptacle (1) and subsequently transmits an ultra-low frequency signal (5) to a receiving and processing means (4). If the analysis of the signal indicates the user of the wireless key (6) is authorized to gain entry to the receptacle (1), the receptacle's locking mechanism (3) is disengaged to allow entry.

Abstract: A new and improved mail slot receptacle bag is provided for use with a door that has a mail slot therein. The top of the shorter panel of the bag adheres just below the mail slot, and the top of the longer panel of the bag adheres just above the mail slot. It is made of lightweight, yet sturdy fabric. There are slits on both sides of the sack to allow for easy accessibility to your mail. The slit openings also allow for more flexibility in the fabric when longer mail items are placed through the mail slot. The bag adheres to the door or wall using Velcro strips (which are concealed when bag is mounted). The Velcro strips allow for easy installation, easy removal of the bag whenever needed and avoids the damage that screws or nails would make to the door or wall. Below the side slits, the bottom ?rd of the bag's sides are sewn or closed so that mail will sit easily within.

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

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

Abstract: A locking mechanism for a theft resistant mailbox includes a door assembly. A door is affixed to a frame by at least one pivot point. A cam includes a lever rotatably engaged to a fixed surface at a mounting point and defines a cutout oriented to be removably engaged to a striker attached to a separate surface abutting the fixed surface to form a lock for the door upon urging of the cam along an angle of rotation defined about the mounting point. An anti-pry plate is attached to the fixed surface and juxtapositioned about the cam throughout the angle of rotation by which the lock is effected. The fixed surface includes one of the frame and the door. The separate surface includes an other one of the frame and the door. The fixed surface and the separate surface are provided independent of the at least one pivot point.

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.

Abstract: An assembly for a door or wall having a mail slot therein includes a mounting portion and a flap portion. The flap portion is sized to cover the mail slot. A connector is mountable on the door or wall around the slot. A cooperable connector is integral with the flap portion for releasably connecting with the connector. The connector includes one of a ferrous material containing portion and a magnetic portion. The cooperable connector includes the other of the ferrous material containing portion and the magnetic portion. The flap portion is magnetically connectable to the door or wall around the mail slot opening.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a mail bag assembly designed to be attached to a garage door in a position to collect mail passed through a mail slot in the garage door. The assembly includes a mail bag having an opening for receiving mail, and a supporting subassembly (which can include a rod) coupled to the bag so as to hold open the mail-receiving opening. The supporting subassembly is configured to be mounted to a garage door and to support the bag in an open, mail-holding position. The bag is shaped and dimensioned so as to receive and hold mail (when supported by the supporting subassembly below a mail slot in the garage door in the mail-holding position with the door in a closed, vertical position) and to prevent the mail from falling out of the bag when the door is opened. Various embodiments of the assembly can be easily installed on any type of garage door, including residential or industrial wood garage doors and composite or metal garage doors with trust support.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for receiving ordered products and/or making products available for pickup. The apparatus has a lockable container for the products with at least an input device and a controller with a memory element. The method employs this reception/provision apparatus. A control unit including at least input device, controller and memory element is positioned with container in front of the user's residence or place of business for an expected delivery/pickup. After a completed ordering process, the obtained order information is input by the user into memory element of reception/provision apparatus to put reception/provision apparatus in a state of readiness. The transportable reception/provision apparatus is positioned in front of the user's residence or place of business for the expected delivery or pickup of product.

Abstract: A mail slot receiver for use with a door having a mail slot therein comprising an outer frame member pivotably attached to an inner frame member and a receptacle attached to the inner frame member, whereby the inner frame member can pivotably rotate between a mail receiving position and a mail retrieving position.

Abstract: A postal receptacle assembly (20A, 20B, 20C, 20D) comprises a postal receptacle component (22) which is spatially framed by other components of the postal receptacle assembly. The other components include a horizontally-oriented stoop (24); two columns (26) mounted on the stoop and extending essentially vertically parallel in spaced apart relationship; and, a pediment (28) supported by the two columns. The postal receptacle component (22) is situated in a space (30) framed in two dimensions by the stoop (24), the pediment (28), and the two columns (26). In certain embodiments the postal receptacle assembly is configured to visually emulate the appearance of a building or portion of a building (e.g., a porch). One or more of the assembly components (known as “stylistic” components) may be formed with (or structurally and/or visually convey) selected architectural features.

Abstract: A method for delivering and shipping parcels using a secure receptacle. The secure receptacle has an access device that controls a lock which is used to secure the contents of the receptacle from unauthorized access. One or more carriers are provided with authorized identification codes that are entered via the access device. Carriers can unlock the receptacle to place a parcel inside and then secure the receptacle to deliver the parcel whether a person is at the delivery location to receive the parcel or not. To ship a parcel, a sender places a parcel in the secure receptacle and notifies the carrier, who accesses the receptacle as described above. The carrier then takes the parcel and delivers it to the specified destination. When parcels are placed in or removed from the secure receptacle, a scanner positioned inside the secure receptacle reads a label on the parcel and sends the information to the carrier or a central processing station for the purposes of tracking parcels and payment transactions.

Abstract: The invention is attached in front of and beneath a mail opening and as the mail passes through the opening it comes into contact with a face-plate provided by the unit. The reaction from the mail pushing against the face-plate rotates sliding plates producing an enlarged collection area from which the recipient can retrieve such mail. The face-plate can then be pushed into its upright position for the next mail delivery. The plates are pivoted at the base of the unit making them rotate around a common centerline. They are engaged in a manner, which allows them to slide past one another until such a point in rotation that one will stop and hold the adjacent plate in succession. The design enables the unit to automatically collapse upon contact with an adjacent wall when the door on which the unit is attached opens, allowing the door to open fully.

Abstract: A mail receptacle. Exterior and interior portions are attached to opposing sides of a door. The exterior portion includes a first flap hingedly attached to the door and selectively closes a mail slot in the door, and an exterior receptacle affixed to the door and selectively closed by a second flap hingedly attached to the door. The interior portion includes an interior receptacle affixed to the door, communicates with the mail slot, and is selectively closed by a third flap hingedly attached to the door, and a clasp hingedly attached to the third flap and selectively overlying the interior receptacle. A padlock is welded to the clasp and a staple extends outwardly from the interior receptacle and is positioned to pass through the clasp, and after the staple passes through the clasp, the staple is engaged by the shackle of the padlock, and by closing the shackle, the interior portion becomes locked.

Abstract: The preferred mailbox of the invention includes a body and a first door. The body preferably defines a first opening adapted to receive a mail item, and a cavity adapted to contain the mail item. The body also includes a primary section that substantially prevents light from entering into the cavity, and a secondary section that substantially allows light to enter into the cavity. The first door is preferably coupled to the body and adapted for movement between an open position that allows access through the first opening into the cavity and a closed position that prevents access through the first opening. In the closed position, the first door substantially allows viewing of the cavity.