Mailbox Patents (Class 340/569)
  • Patent number: 11571079
    Abstract: A package delivery box 100 is disclosed. It comprises a container 101 for accommodating at least one package, an openable lid 102 attached to the container 101, a closing mechanism for closing the container 101, and a locking mechanism for locking the closed container 101. The closing mechanism comprises a pressure plate 103 at a base of the container 101, a string 105 connecting the pressure plate 103 with the lid, and at least one pull spring 106 between the lid 102 and the container 101, and the locking mechanism comprises a flexible rod 104 beneath the pressure plate 103 and directly connected to the pressure plate 103, a slider 109 connected to the flexible rod, and a hole 110 in the lid, wherein the hole 110 is adapted to accommodate insertion of the flexible rod 104 therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Inventor: Mirza Faizan
  • Patent number: 11497335
    Abstract: A parcel safe for remote vehicle pickup and delivery of packages including a container having an opening for receiving or deploying packages. The container has a lockable lid associated with the opening and has a closed position and an open position. The container and associated lid define a package receiving surface in the open position. Alignment apparatus is associated with the package receiving surface and provides an index for a receiving point of the package receiving surface. The alignment apparatus is designed for use by a remote vehicle in a pickup or delivery process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Inventor: Rebecca Romanucci
  • Patent number: 11490753
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a system for monitoring a mailbox is provided. The system may include a mailbox device including at least one sensor, such as a video camera, for detecting movement, and a mailbox communication interface configured to communicate information including sensor information generated by the at least one sensor. The system may further include a premises device including a premises communication interface configured to receive the sensor information from the mailbox device and processing circuitry configured to determine whether a mailbox event has occurred and trigger at least one alert if a mailbox event occurred. The system may further provide notification of the event to an authorized entity via mobile device, voice assistant, etc. An access control unit may be used to limit access to the mailbox to authorized individuals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: The ADT Security Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Arthur Van Valkenburg, III
  • Patent number: 11103063
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a rack of lockers is disclosed. The apparatus includes a key-facilitation server configured to cooperate with a locker server, and also configured to receive a key-access request. The locker server is associated with a rack of lockers including a first compartment configured to allow storage of secondary equipment, a second compartment having an open locker slot configured to maintain storage of equipment, and a locker divider separating the first compartment from the second compartment. The key-access request is configured to indicate a user request configured to request usage of an access key. The access key is also configured to be usable by the locker server. The locker server is configured to receive a locker-access request. The locker-access request is configured to indicate access of a selected locker is user requested. The locker server is configured to use the access key so as to facilitate secured user access of the selected locker associated with the rack of lockers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Best Lockers, LLC
    Inventors: Cory Jack Finney, Christian Nitu, Nick Ramsey, Jordan Darrington, Jonathan White, Matt Hoenecke
  • Patent number: 11033137
    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 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Suzhou Dewo Smart System Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiaoju Geng
  • Patent number: 10986950
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a system for monitoring a mailbox is provided. The system may include a mailbox device including at least one sensor, such as a video camera, for detecting movement, and a mailbox communication interface configured to communicate information including sensor information generated by the at least one sensor. The system may further include a premises device including a premises communication interface configured to receive the sensor information from the mailbox device and processing circuitry configured to determine whether a mailbox event has occurred and trigger at least one alert if a mailbox event occurred. The system may further provide notification of the event to an authorized entity via mobile device, voice assistant, etc. An access control unit may be used to limit access to the mailbox to authorized individuals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: The ADT Security Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Arthur Van Valkenburg, III
  • Patent number: 10867278
    Abstract: A pre-processing and fulfillment system and method are described. In some implementations, the method may include receiving an order containing a retail component and a pharmacy component, processing the order for the pharmacy component and the retail component, and generating a tracking token identifying the order and authorizing a party to receive a component of the order. The method may include transmitting fulfillment instructions to a fulfillment system based on processed information for the order, and transmitting the tracking token to a computing device of the authorized party. Some implementations may also include receiving a signal indicating receipt of the tracking token and an authorized transfer of the component, and updating a status of the order based on the received signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathaniel D. Gilman, Himanshu Gupta, David Harkins, John R. Hoenick, Renee L. Hoyceanyls, Dustin W. Humphreys, Eric G. Parrish, Grant D. Pill, Matthew K. Scott, Jared P. Tancrelle, Brian A. Tilzer, Patrick J. Walsh
  • Patent number: 10860970
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing integrated, secure, and verifiable home services, such as delivery of physical items within a home and execution of services within a home, are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the system includes cameras, sensors and locks wirelessly connected and configured to provide information to a server associated with the delivery of items and services. In one embodiment, the disclosed methods track and deliver a package in a secure and verifiable manner through use of a time-limited electronic key. Other embodiments include apparatuses having wirelessly connected cameras that allow monitoring of the status of the delivery of an item or of services.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: P3 Ventures, LLC
    Inventors: Phillip Felice, Alfred M. Pirrone, Chase C. Penman
  • Patent number: 10198929
    Abstract: A system for reducing a risk of drowning in a pool includes a pool monitoring unit and a swim monitoring station. The pool monitoring unit is switchable between an activated state and a deactivated state. The pool monitoring unit is configured to detect entrance into the pool and/or movement in the pool and to output an alarm signal in response a detected entrance into the pool and/or movement in the pool when in the activated state. The swim monitoring station is configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more wearable alarm devices and the swim monitoring station is in wireless communication with the pool monitoring unit. The swim monitoring station is switchable between an off state and an on state. In the on state, the swim monitoring station is configured send a wireless signal to the pool monitoring unit to deactivate the pool monitoring unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: Graham E. Snyder
  • Patent number: 10016083
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a smart mailbox includes a main body, a sensor module, a camera module, a transmission module and a biometric sensor module. The main body includes an enclosed space for storing mails and an opening for inserting mails into the enclosed space. The sensor module is configured to detect presence of one or more mails in the enclosed space. The camera module is configured to capture one or more images of at least a part of the one or more mails. The transmission module is configured to send a notification of presence of the one or more mails and the one or more images to a user device associated with a user. The biometric sensor module is disposed on the main body and is configured to authenticate identity of the user accessing the mailbox to retrieve the one or more mails from the enclosed space of the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Inventor: Saleh (Sam) Atieh
  • Patent number: 9918577
    Abstract: A mail notification system includes an alert unit that is positioned in a mailbox thereby facilitating the alert unit to sense when mail is placed in the mailbox. The alert unit transmits a first alert signal when the mail is placed in the mailbox. A display unit is provided and the display unit is in electrical communication with the alert unit. The display unit transmits a second alert signal when the display unit receives the first alert signal. An electronic device is provided and the electronic device is in wireless electrical communication with the display unit. The electronic device generates an alert when the display unit transmits the second alert signal. In this way the electronic device notifies the user of the mail in the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Stanley Brown
  • Patent number: 9684919
    Abstract: Methods and systems can be provided for providing items manufactured on demand to users. A user request for an item can be received. The item can have 3D manufacturing instructions associated therewith. A delivery method for the item can be determined. A manufacturing apparatus can be selected to manufacture the item based on the 3D manufacturing instructions. Instructions can be sent to the manufacturing apparatus to manufacture the item based on the 3D manufacturing instructions. Delivery instructions can be provided for delivering the item according to the delivery method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Linda Knowlton Apsley, Colin Ian Bodell, Jacob Conrad Danton, Scott Randall Hayden, SaiPrasad Kapila, Eric Lessard, Robert Benjamin Uhl
  • Patent number: 8919637
    Abstract: An unmanned parcel storage apparatus capable of dynamically allocating storage spaces and a method of using the unmanned parcel storage. A storage method of the unmanned parcel storage apparatus determines a position and a size of a desired storage space to be allocated. Based on the determination result, a moving unit adds or removes a partition to create the desired storage space, and moves a delivery item to the created storage space for the storage purpose. Accordingly, it is possible to efficiently use a space in a storage unit and thereby store more number of delivery items in the same storage unit. In addition, the moving unit processes the allocation of storage spaces, and delivery, loading and discharging of the delivery items, and therefore the user's convenience of use can be enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Dong-Ho Kim, Jae-Gwan Song, Hyon-Gook Kim, Hoon Jung, Jong-Heung Park
  • Patent number: 8655795
    Abstract: A system and related method are disclosed for establishing geographical communication and predicting mail delivery using mailbox-mounted devices adapted to detect delivery automatically and transmit that detection to associated electronic devices. Detection may be performed by various means including accelerometers, cameras, and magnetometers. The method includes maintaining a registry of mailbox-mounted devices, and passing communication between electronic devices used by owners of mailbox-mounted devices. The communication can include detection by the mailbox-mounted devices of mail delivery, and calculation of the postal carrier's probable route using that delivery detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Dmitriy Kolchin
  • Patent number: 8554495
    Abstract: Systems and methods for head impact injury prediction. A computer implemented method is provided for event based injury predictions. The computer implemented method receives an indication of sensor data related to an impact of a user. The received sensor data is compared to previously stored sensor data in a data store. Each instance of the previously stored sensor data is associated with a medical diagnosis. If the received sensor data matches any of the previously stored sensor data based on the comparison, then an injury risk indicator is generated based on at least one of the medical diagnosis associated with the matching previously stored sensor data or an impact history of the user. The generated indicator is presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: X2 Biosystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Christoph Mack, Marina Kuznetsova, Scott Votaw, Robert Snook
  • Publication number: 20130147626
    Abstract: An electronic mailbox system features: a mailbox housing with an inner cavity and slot for holding mail, a lid, an electrically-operable lock system for the lid, a mail sensor for detecting the mail being inserted into the slot, a first transmitter, a first receiver and a mailbox microprocessor; and a control box with a second transmitter, a second receiver, a control box indicator light, an unlock button, a reset button, and a control box microprocessor. When the mail sensor detects mail delivery the control box indicator light becomes illuminated. When the unlock button is pushed the lock system unlocks. When the reset button is pressed the indicator light is deactivated. An alarm system may be activated upon receipt of mail and/or if a tamper sensor detects tampering. Another embodiment features control and monitoring of the mailbox via a mobile consumer electronics device, as a smart phone or tablet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: Hassan Hammoud
  • Publication number: 20130038450
    Abstract: System and Method for mail notification. An apparatus includes a first member adapted to be placed on an interior portion of the post office box, a flap member rotatably attached to the first member, and a sensor included in at least one of the first member or the flap member. When the apparatus is placed inside the post office box, and when the flap member is moved to be proximate to the first member to allow placement of content inside the post office box, the sensor detects proximity of the flap member to the first member or movement of the flap member from a first position to a second position, and provides an indication in response to detection of proximity, wherein the indication is useable to notify a recipient associated with the post office box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Brett B. Stewart
  • Patent number: 8358199
    Abstract: A lockable container (1) for receiving items includes elements for generating a random code when the container is locked, elements for transferring the code to a person locking the container, and a memory for storing the code. The container further includes elements (2) for unlocking the container to a first stage, in which the contents of the container can be viewed by a user but not removed from the container, and elements for transferring the code to the user when the container is unlocked at the first stage. The container can then be unlocked to a second stage (3), in which the user can remove the contents of the container and the code is removed from the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Edward Nesling
  • Patent number: 8299923
    Abstract: An electronic mailbox system features: a mailbox housing with an inner cavity and slot for holding mail, a lid, an electrically-operable lock system for the lid, a mail sensor for detecting the mail being inserted into the slot, a first transmitter, a first receiver and a mailbox microprocessor; and a control box with a second transmitter, a second receiver, a control box indicator light, an unlock button, a reset button, and a control box microprocessor. When the mail sensor detects mail delivery the control box indicator light becomes illuminated. When the unlock button is pushed the lock system unlocks. When the reset button is pressed the indicator light is deactivated. An alarm system may be activated upon receipt of mail and/or if a tamper sensor detects tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Hassan Hammoud
  • Patent number: 8193933
    Abstract: An energy conserving remote viewing system comprising an instantaneous analog video transmission camera, an analog video receiver that receives and transmits a video image to a video monitor and a remote transmitter that activates the analog video transmission camera. The remote camera device is normally in a low power, sleep mode that has a minimal power drain. The system includes a battery powered camera requiring a first voltage to operate and an RF transmitter to send an activation signal to the camera. The activation signal has a duration. A camera power circuit includes a normally sleeping signal receiving circuit and a first timer. The first timer periodically activates the signal receiving circuit to check for the presence of the activation signal and turns off the signal receiving circuit if the activation signal is not present and turns on the camera if the activation signal is present, and wherein the time the signal receiving circuit sleeps is less than the activation signal duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventors: Scott Jezierski, Andrew Wayne Knight
  • Patent number: 8164452
    Abstract: A system for and method of generating a notification regarding post office box contents. The system comprises at least one indicator transmitter arranged to generate and transmit a notification signal regarding contents of the post office box responsive to an operator actuation, and at least one receiver/network interface communicatively coupled with the at least one indicator transmitter and arranged to transmit a first signal responsive to receipt of the notification signal from the at least one indicator transmitter. The method comprises generating a notification signal responsive to an operator actuation responsive to a change of the contents of a post office box, and transmitting the generated notification signal to a client device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Moses, Richard Moses
  • Patent number: 8150656
    Abstract: Sensors and techniques for an automated data acquisition and notification system having a plurality of receptacles adapted to store items. In each of the plurality of receptacles, at least one sensor is operated to detect a presence of an item in that receptacle. Light is emitted from a planar surface within the receptacle to a space within the receptacle opposite the planar surface. While that light is emitted light incident on the planar surface is detected. A determination is made whether an amount of light that is detected is significant to indicate a presence of the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: ANS, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel L. Kunkel
  • Patent number: 8044786
    Abstract: Systems and methods for diagnosing battery voltage misreporting is described. According to various embodiments, battery voltage may be monitored with respect to a state of charge and/or time. Based on this monitored information, battery charge state data may be generated by computing time derivatives of the monitored battery voltage across a voltage range. This battery charge state data may be compared with an expected set of charge state data if substantial differences exist, an error may be generated. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene Michael Berdichevsky, Philip David Cole, James Jay Dunlay
  • Patent number: 7999656
    Abstract: An electronic lock box contains a secure compartment for storing keys to a structure. A sensing system allow the lock box to determine whether the contents of the lock box have been replaced as well as ensuring the correct key or object has been returned. The system reports the status of the object back to the central clearinghouse computer through an electronic key or secure memory device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: SentriLock, LLC
    Inventor: Scott R. Fisher
  • Patent number: 7928842
    Abstract: An energy conserving remote viewing system comprising an instantaneous analog video transmission camera, an analog video receiver that receives and transmits a video image to a video monitor and a remote transmitter that activates the analog video transmission camera. The remote camera device is normally in a low power, sleep mode that has a minimal power drain. The system includes a battery powered camera requiring a first voltage to operate and an RF transmitter to send an activation signal to the camera. The activation signal has a duration. A camera power circuit includes a normally sleeping signal receiving circuit and a first timer. The first timer periodically activates the signal receiving circuit to check for the presence of the activation signal and turns off the signal receiving circuit if the activation signal is not present and turns on the camera if the activation signal is present, and wherein the time the signal receiving circuit sleeps is less than the activation signal duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventors: Scott Jezierski, Andrew W Knight
  • Patent number: 7913898
    Abstract: There is provided a collecting container. An exemplary collecting container comprises an insertion opening on the front of the collecting container that is adapted to receive objects. The exemplary collecting container additionally comprises a receiving device arranged to receive the objects and to convey them to a storage space in the collecting container, the storage space containing a filling-level measuring means that is connected to a blocking device preventing the receiving device from being opened when a defined filling level has been reached in the storage space, the receiving device comprising a roller shutter box whose receiving area is formed by at least two side walls and a bottom. The exemplary collecting container further comprises a roller shutter that is adapted to be moved in rails on the side walls, the blocking device being configured so that it can block the movement of the roller shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Deutsche Post AG
    Inventors: Steffen Frankenberg, Martin Räss, Ramin Benz, Sven Hein, Boris Paul
  • Patent number: 7859417
    Abstract: Various embodiments of object tracking systems and related methods and devices are disclosed. One enclosure for object tracking comprises an interior space that is designed to contain radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The enclosure further includes top, bottom and side walls that form the interior space. The walls are designed to prevent very little or no radio frequency (RF) signals leakage outside of the enclosure. The side walls include a front wall that includes at least one slot to facilitate accessing the interior space. The enclosure further includes at least one access member that is designed to move in and out of the enclosure via the at least one slot. The access member includes extending members that are designed to cover the openings between the access member and slot, thus preventing very little or no RF signals leakage outside of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Winware, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence Edward Harper, Derry Thomas DeNise
  • Patent number: 7843340
    Abstract: A mail delivery alert system includes a mailbox housing that encloses an interior space that defines an open front. A door is pivotally coupled to the housing and is movable between open and closed configurations relative to the open front. A first sensor is positioned in the housing so as to detect an opening of the door and a second sensor is positioned so as to detect the presence of an article, such as mail, in the open space of the housing. The system includes a transmitter and a processor. The processor includes programming for actuating the transmitter to transmit an alert signal through the air upon the first sensor detecting an opening of the door and the second sensor detecting the presence of an article in the open space of the housing. The system includes a receiver remote from the housing for receiving the alert signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Willis Noland Davis
  • Patent number: 7815112
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for securely delivering a parcel when the intended recipient is not present to take physical possession of the parcel. Parcel delivery companies assign a unique tracking number to each parcel. The tracking number is enabled as an access code which, when input by a delivery person, unlocks a secured area such that the parcel can be placed inside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Dante P. Volpe, Dennis M. Petricoin
  • Publication number: 20100253518
    Abstract: An electronic mailbox system features: a mailbox housing with an inner cavity and slot for holding mail, a lid, an electrically-operable lock system for the lid, a mail sensor for detecting the mail being inserted into the slot, a first transmitter, a first receiver and a mailbox microprocessor; and a control box with a second transmitter, a second receiver, a control box indicator light, an unlock button, a reset button, and a control box microprocessor. When the mail sensor detects mail delivery the control box indicator light becomes illuminated. When the unlock button is pushed the lock system unlocks. When the reset button is pressed the indicator light is deactivated. An alarm system may be activated upon receipt of mail and/or if a tamper sensor detects tampering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Hassan Hammoud
  • Patent number: 7786862
    Abstract: A method and system for remote notification of arrival of postal mail in a mailbox through a wireless transmitter and receiver, is herein disclosed. The system consists of a battery-powered motion sensor placed within an upper back portion of a standard, approved mailbox thereby a fastening means. When the mailbox door opens, the motion sensor is activated and automatically generates and transmits a wireless signal to a receiver located within a pre-determined proximity. The receiver is capable of providing both an audible and visual signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Eugene L. Campbell
  • Patent number: 7731089
    Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for interactive mail management of physical mail. Physical mail is received in a mailbox. An identifier is read in response to receiving the physical mail in the mailbox. The physical mail contains the identifier. Information contained in the identifier is sent to the mail recipient. The mail recipient is able to identify instructions for communicating with a sender associated with the physical mail based on the information from the identifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David Yu Chang, John Yow-Chun Chang, Vishwanath Venkataramappa
  • Publication number: 20100033328
    Abstract: A system for and method of generating a notification regarding post office box contents. The system comprises at least one indicator transmitter arranged to generate and transmit a notification signal regarding contents of the post office box responsive to an operator actuation, and at least one receiver/network interface communicatively coupled with the at least one indicator transmitter and arranged to transmit a first signal responsive to receipt of the notification signal from the at least one indicator transmitter. The method comprises generating a notification signal responsive to an operator actuation responsive to a change of the contents of a post office box, and transmitting the generated notification signal to a client device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Robert MOSES, Richard MOSES
  • Publication number: 20100001861
    Abstract: A mail delivery alert system includes a mailbox housing that encloses an interior space that defines an open front. A door is pivotally coupled to the housing and is movable between open and closed configurations relative to the open front. A first sensor is positioned in the housing so as to detect an opening of the door and a second sensor is positioned so as to detect the presence of an article, such as mail, in the open space of the housing. The system includes a transmitter and a processor. The processor includes programming for actuating the transmitter to transmit an alert signal through the air upon the first sensor detecting an opening of the door and the second sensor detecting the presence of an article in the open space of the housing. The system includes a receiver remote from the housing for receiving the alert signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Willis Noland Davis
  • Patent number: 7609952
    Abstract: An energy conserving remote power efficient viewing system comprising an instantaneous analog video transmission camera, an analog video receiver that receives and transmits a video image to a video monitor and a remote transmitter that activates the analog video transmission camera. The remote camera device is normally off, sleep mode that has a minimal power drain. The system includes a battery powered camera requiring a first voltage to operate and an RF transmitter to send an activation signal to the camera. The activation signal has a duration. A camera power circuit includes a normally sleeping signal receiving circuit and a first timer. The first timer periodically activates the signal receiving circuit to check for the presence of the activation signal and turns off the signal receiving circuit if the activation signal is not present and turns on the camera if the activation signal is present, and wherein the time the signal receiving circuit is off is less than the activation signal duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventors: Scott Jezierski, Andrew W. Knight
  • Patent number: 7608790
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wireless electrical control system for power tool and specifically to a wireless control device for a router. The electrical control system may include a handle suitable for manipulating a router. A switch and a wireless transmitter are disposed in the handle. Communicatively coupled to the transmitter is a wireless receiver capable of receiving the transmissions from the transmitter in the handle. In alternative embodiments the wireless receiver is disposed in the router itself or the receiver is disposed in an outlet unit, which is capable of electrically coupling to the router's electrical cord and an electrical outlet. The wireless receiver of the present invention is capable of controlling the flow of electricity to the electrical system of the router so that the router is capable of being altered from the switch mounted on the handle, thus allowing users to change the power setting while retaining secure control of the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: James Patton
  • Patent number: 7597256
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Visible Assets, Inc
    Inventor: John K. Stevens
  • Patent number: 7525429
    Abstract: A delivery notification system for operation with a repository. The system includes at least one node module that may have a sensor for detecting the presence of a delivered item, as well as an interface for receiving a selection input representative of a predefined condition. The system also includes a notification server for transmitting to the recipient a delivery notice in response to the detection of the delivered item or the receipt of the selection input. The delivery notice may be transmitted to the recipient over a variety of transmission modalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Persage, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. Carrigan
  • Patent number: 7515038
    Abstract: A system for warning against forgetting to pull out an information recording medium can improve working efficiency upon mounting a navigation unit and an on-board radio unit onto a vehicle, and notify a user of an alarm that causes no uncomfortable feeling, and is still inexpensive to manufacture. A drive unit switch detects when a control part is turned off, also detects, through a communication line, a residual state of an IC card with respect to an on-board device, and notifies the result of the detection to a the voice generation part. When the IC card is “absent” in the on-board device, the control part interrupts the supply of power to the on-board device through the on-board device power supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Norihiko Mouri
  • Patent number: 7515048
    Abstract: Methods and systems for using radio frequency identification (“RFID”) to automatically lock and unlock a mobile computing device. An RFID transceiver is installed in connection with a locking device. The locking device can secure the mobile computing device to a cable, which is securable to a physical structure. An RFID transmitter is configured to detect a signal from the RFID transceiver within a predetermined distance range and send a response signal to the RFID transceiver. If the RFID transmitter is within the range, the RFID transceiver detects the response signal from the RFID transmitter and issues an unlocking signal to change the position of the locking device to an unlocked position. If the RFID transmitter is outside of the range, the RFID transceiver does not detect a response signal from the RFID transmitter, and issues a locking signal to change the locking device position to a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Sukadev Bhattiprolu, Haren Myneni, Malahal R. Naineni, Chandra Seetharaman, Narasimha N. Sharoff
  • Patent number: 7506796
    Abstract: A transmitting mechanism for indicating the deposit of mail into mailboxes having doors that pivot about a horizontal hinge. Such mailboxes normally identified as curb side, wall mounted, and slot type. The transmitting mechanism is comprised of an adjustable knob capable of positioning an adjoining tilt switch, such that the mechanism can be set to send a signal at any preferred mailbox opening. As the mailbox door is opened past a predetermined angle, the tilt switch completes a circuit which emits a signal to a remote receiver which activates a sound and visual alarm indicating that mail has been deposited in the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Lee Hanna
  • Publication number: 20080278323
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for detecting the presence of mail articles in individual mailboxes, and informing the mailbox owner at a remote location of the presence and even sender of such mail articles. The method uses sensors in the mailbox to detect the articles and a scanner to capture images of the articles. Information about the mailbox and articles is stored in electronic memory for remote retrieval, i.e., over the Internet. Automatic alerts may also be sent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Wayne Jackson
  • Patent number: 7398915
    Abstract: The security mailbox assembly functions to prevent identity and mail theft. The security mailbox assembly comprises a lockable mailbox having an internal alarm system including a receiver and transmitter unit (1), functioning in cooperation with a home base device including an outgoing mail holder for placement of outgoing mail therein, the outgoing mail holder being located remote from the mailbox and including a second receiver and transmitter unit (2) for receiving radio wave signals from the first antenna transmitter and receiver, and to transmit the mailbox data information to a receiver and transmitter unit (3), or a remote security mailbox monitoring center in response to triggering of an activation input from the mailbox device, also including a remote control receiver and transmitter unit (3) adapted to be carried by an individual or the owner of the mailbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventors: Juan Ramon Pineda-Sanchez, Maria Garcia-Pineda
  • Patent number: 7382252
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Chet J. Brannon
  • Patent number: 7360680
    Abstract: A mailbox kit 10 which may be utilized to selectively create several different types of mailbox assemblies, such as an assembly which may be selectively locked and which may be selectively accessed from several different directions. In one non-limiting embodiment, the created mail box configuration may be closely, and operatively stacked in an overall aesthetically pleasing manner and provide remote notification functionality upon receipt of a letter and/or other item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: Charles John Grossmeyer
  • Patent number: 7337944
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: United States Postal Service
    Inventor: Rodney C. Devar
  • Patent number: 7333017
    Abstract: A read and write box of a wireless tag reader and writer according to and embodiment of the invention has an open end and a closed end. Multiple envelopes each having a wireless tag at the end are inserted through the open end into the read and write box. The read and write box has a first read antenna and a second read antenna on the upper surface. The first read antenna detects wireless tags in a write area at the closed end; and the second read antenna detects wireless tags outside the write area. A write antenna is disposed at the closed end of the read and write box. The write antenna writes data to wireless tags. A step is formed on the lower surface of the read and write box in such a manner that the bottom of the write area is lower than the bottom adjacent to the open end so that the ends of the envelops align in the vicinity of the closed end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hidekazu Mori, Hitoshi Adachi
  • Patent number: 7312708
    Abstract: The RF tag recycling system for recycling RF tags containing information on goods to which the RF tags are attached includes data storage mediums which are portable by consumers and issued by stores affiliated with the system, at least one RF tag collecting apparatus configured to calculate, when one of the data storage mediums is inserted into the RF collecting apparatus, a reward point value for RF tags put in the RF collecting apparatus, and to update the one of the data storage mediums on the basis of the calculated reward point value. The RF tag recycling system further includes a data processing apparatus configured to accumulate the calculated reward point value received from the RF tag collecting apparatus and to notify one of the stores which is an issuer of the one of the data storage mediums of information on an accumulated reward point value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: DENSO WAVE INCORPOARTED
    Inventor: Atsushi Tano
  • Patent number: 7268666
    Abstract: The invention relates to an article delivery receptacle (10) comprising an electronic code lock (11). When delivering articles (8), the delivery person opens the receptacle (10) by entering a delivery code (6) into the electronic code lock (11). During the ordering process, the addressee (1) conveys the required delivery code (6) to the delivery person (9) via the supplier (9) of the ordered articles (8). After the articles (8) are deposited in the receptacle, the receptacle (10) is locked once again so that the articles (8) placed therein are protected from theft. After a successful delivery, the code lock (11) is blocked so that it is no longer possible to open the delivery receptacle (10) using the delivery code (6). The addressee can remove the delivered articles (8) from the receptacle (10) by using an addressee key (12) which only the addressee possesses. After removing the articles (8), the delivery receptacle is enabled once again for receiving subsequent deliveries of articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventors: Jörg Fassbender, Gerald Weber
  • Patent number: 7256691
    Abstract: A smart mailbox having a receptacle with a front panel door and a postal slot comprising; means for detecting receipt of a mail; an indicator connected to said detector for indicating receipt of a mail, and; means for electronically locking the mailbox thus providing a secure and smart mailbox. The means for detecting includes motion detectors or weight detectors or both and indicator includes a local and a remote indicator. Further said means for electronically locking may be an electromagnetically operated lock and a keypad. In addition the keypad may include a remote keypad for remote operations of the remote keypad and the remote indicator the mailbox provides a transceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Christopher Awobue