GB2407128A

GB2407128A - A secure storage system and method of providing an access code.

Info

Publication number: GB2407128A
Application number: GB0422878A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Hale
Original assignee: BearBox Ltd
Current assignee: BearBox Ltd
Priority date: 2000-08-25
Filing date: 2000-08-25
Publication date: 2005-04-20
Anticipated expiration: 2020-08-25
Also published as: GB0422878D0; AU2001282352B2; GB2407128B

Abstract

A secure storage unit 108, method of use of such a unit and an access system for carrying out the method. A central management system 104 provides the secure unit 108 and a logistics centre 106 with an authorisation access code and such that secure unit 108 will enable access thereto upon the use of the access code. A preferred method includes the steps of receiving notification of an order for goods from a customer and communicating that order to a delivery service along with an authorisation access code.

Description

SECURE ACCESS SYSTEM

The present invention relates to a secure access system, such as a system for the delivery of goods, ordered by a customer, to a secure unit accessible by the customer. The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, concerned with the delivery of goods ordered using the internet.

The use of the interact for the purchase of goods is a rapidly growing area. Some of the main reasons why customers buy goods on-line over the internet are convenience, price and speed.

However despite such advantages associated with buying goods over the internet, the 'final mile' problems of delivering goods to the home deters some customers. This is because of the need to be at home on a particular day or at a particular time in order to receive the goods.

Furthermore the process of returning goods to the supplier is also a problem which deters people from buying on-line.

Typically in the current market goods are delivered to customers at their home, either because someone happens to be at home when the goods are delivered or because the delivery company arranged with the customer for somebody to be at home at a specific time.

Arranging for somebody to be at home at a specific time, or arranging for goods to be left in another agreed place (for example with a neighbour) compromises the convenience of home delivery. The delivery company leaving goods on the property when nobody is at home to accept the delivery compromises security. The delivery of goods through a letter box compromises the choice of goods which can be delivered.

US Patent No. 5,774,053 discloses a storage device that secures goods and that provides a notification that goods have been delivered. The storage device is pre-prograrnmed with a number of access codes that enable access to the storage device. Access codes can be changed only by direct access at the storage device.

With the above problems of home delivery in mind, it is an aim of the present invention to provide an improved method and system suitable for delivering goods to a customer. The invention is particularly advantageous when applied to the delivery of goods ordered over the internet, but applies equally to goods ordered by telephone, fax, catalogue or from local suppliers.

In accordance with the present invention there is provided an access system comprising: a secure unit; a logistics centre provided with details of an access to be made to the secure unit; a central management system adapted to communicate with the logistics centre to confirm access details, and to transmit an access code to the secure unit, wherein the secure unit is adapted to enable access thereto responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

The logistics centre may provide the access code to a user for user access to the secure unit.

The central management system is preferably adapted to provide the access code to the logistics centre responsive to a request from the logistics centre. The provision of the access code to the user may be under the control of the central management system.

The invention also provides a central management system for an access system comprising: a first communications interface for communicating with a logistics centre provided with details of an access to be made, a second communications interface for communicating with a secure unit which enables access thereto responsive to use of an access code at a user interface thereof, the central management system being adapted to communicate with the logistics centre to confirm access details, and to transmit an access code to the secure storage unit.

The invention further provides a method for enabling access to a secure unit comprising: providing a logistics centre with details of an access to be made to a secure unit; confirming access details between the logistics centre and a central management system; transmitting an access code from the central management system to the secure unit; and enabling access to the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

In embodiments of the invention, there is provided a storage unit for secure storage, the storage unit having a communications interface for communicating with a delivery/collection management system, wherein the storage unit receives an authorization access code including an authorised time slot from the delivery/collection management system, goods for delivery/collection having a goods authorization code associated therewith, wherein the goods authorisation code forms a part of the authorisation access code, the storage unit enabling access thereto responsive to use of the authorisation access code in the authorised time slot at a user interface.

Such an embodiment also provides for a method of controlling a secure storage unit, the storage unit having a communications interface for communicating with a delivery/collection management system, the method comprising: receiving an authorisation access code, including an authorised time slot, from the delivery/collection management system; providing goods for delivery/collection with a goods authorisation code, wherein the goods authorisation code forms part of the authorisation access code; and enabling access to the storage unit responsive to the use of the authorisation access code in the authorised time slot at a user interface.

In embodiments the storage unit has a communications interface for communicating with a delivery/collection management system, wherein the storage unit is provided with a bar-code representing at least a part of an authorisation access code, the storage unit enabling access thereto responsive to use of the authorisation access code at a user interface.

In this embodiment there is also provided a method of controlling access to a secure storage unit comprising providing a bar-coded display representing at least a part of an authorisation access code; and enabling access to the secure storage unit responsive to use of the authorisation access code at a user interface.

In embodiments there is provided a portable communications device having a communications interface for communicating with a storage unit, the storage unit enabling access thereto responsive to an authorisation access code, the portable communication device providing at least part of said authorisation access code.

In this embodiment there is also provided a method of controlling access to a secure storage unit, comprising providing a portable communications device having a communications interface for communicating with the storage unit, the storage unit enabling access thereto responsive to an authorisation access code, wherein the portable communication device transmits at least part of the authorisation access code.

In embodiments there is provided a controller for a delivery/collection system comprising: means for receiving notification of an order for goods; means for communicating details of said order to a delivery/collection carrier; and means for communicating with a secure storage unit, wherein responsive to receipt of notification of an order, an authorisation code to enable access to the secure storage unit is transmitted to the delivery/collection carrier and the secure storage unit, the authorisation code including an authorised time-slot for use of the authorisation code.

In this embodiment there is also provided a method of controlling a delivery/collection system comprising: receiving notification of an order for goods from a customer; communicating details of the order to a delivery/collection service; wherein the step of communicating details to the delivery/collection service includes providing the delivery/collection service and the delivery unit with an authorisation code to enable access IS to the delivery/collection unit, the authorisation code including an authorised time-slot.

In embodiments there is provided a storage unit for secure storage, the storage unit having a communications interface for communicating with a delivery/collection management system, wherein the storage unit receives an authorisation access code having at least two parts from the delivery/collection management system, the storage unit enabling access thereto responsive to use of the authorisation access code in the authorised time slot at a user interface.

In this embodiment there is also provided a method of controlling a secure storage unit, the storage unit having a communications interface for communicating with a delivery/collection management system, the method comprising: receiving an authorisation access code having at least two parts, from the delivery/collection management system; and enabling access to the storage unit responsive to the use of the authorisation access code in the authorised time slot at a user interface.

In embodiments there is provided a portal for providing access to a set of retailers each being associated with a secure delivery management system, the secure delivery management system controlling a delivery to a secure storage unit by the steps of: receiving notification of s an order for goods from a customer; communicating details of the order to a delivery service; wherein the step of communicating details to the delivery service includes providing the delivery unit with an authorization code to enable access to the delivery unit, and making the authorization access code available to the delivery service, the authorization code including an authorised time-slot. The portal preferably comprises a website. The authorization access code is preferably made available to the delivery service via the portal.

In embodiments there is provided a portal for providing access to a set of retailers each being associated with a secure delivery system utilising a secure storage unit, the storage unit having a communications interface for communicating with a delivery management system, the operation of the secure delivery system comprising the steps of: receiving an authorization access code, including an authorised time slot, from the delivery management system at the storage unit; and enabling access to the storage unit responsive to the use of the authorization access code in the authorised time slot at a user interface of the storage unit.

The portal preferably comprises a web-site.

The invention will now be described in relation to a particular example as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 illustrates the overall management system of a delivery system in accordance with the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates the main control elements of a secure storage unit in accordance with the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates the main elements of each of the blocks shown in Figure 1; and Figures 4(a) to 4() show flow diagrams illustrating the functionality of the secure box.

In the following description, where reference is made to customers or retailers these references are interchangeable with receiver and sender of goods, which can include all kinds of deliveries, including business documents or deliveries to business premises.

Referring to Figure 1, there is generally illustrated in block diagram form all elements necessary to implement a preferred embodiment of the present invention. A central management system 104 implementing a delivery control system is illustrated. Also illustrated in Figure l are: a customer 102, a retailer 100, a logistics centre 106, a delivery van] 10 associated with the logistics centre 106, and a secure box or storage unit 108.

Referring to Figure 3, the same elements are illustrated with their main functional elements identified.

In accordance with the preferred implementation of the present invention, the central management system 104 of the invention is a BearBox central management system provided as a separately managed entity to the retailer 100 and the logistics centre 106. The central management system is preferably implemented on a server. However it will be apparent from reading the following description of this preferred embodiment that in fact the central management system 104, the retailer 100, and the logistic centre 106 maybe operated as a single system, for example under the operation of a single company.

In the preferred example, the customer 102 is assumed to be located at their home. The customer 102 is first required to acquire an account with the central management system 104.

The preferable way in which the customer acquires an account with the central management system 104 is by purchasing a secure box 108. Purchasing such a box automatically gives the customer an account. In the preferred example, the secure box 108 is a BearBox, and the customer is provided with a BearBox account on purchase thereof.

Other options for acquiring an account with the central management system 104 may exist.

For example, after purchasing a secure box 108, the customer may telephone the company in charge of the central management system 104 to obtain an account. In a further alternative, the customer 102 may log-on to a website associated with the central management system 104 in order to register for an account.

Once the account is registered, the customer 102 is provided with an account number for future use. The intercommunication between the customer 102 and the central management system 104 is represented by line 1] 8, and in this described preferred embodiment is implemented over the internet.

The customer preferably has a computer terminal 314 having a communication interface 314 for communicating with the retailer via lines 120, and a communication interface 316 for communicating with the central management system 104 via lines 118.

The customer 102 may log onto a website provided by the retailer 100 for the purpose of ordering goods from the retailer 100. In one example it is assumed that the retailer 100 is integrated into the central management system 104. Therefore when the customer orders goods on the retailer's website, the order form will include a request for the customer to enter their BearBox account number. In the event that a customer 102 does not have a BearBox account and leaves the BearBoxQ) account number field blank, then the order will be processed and delivered in another, conventional way.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, a customer having an account with the central management system 104 logs onto a website associated with the central management system. In the preferred embodiment this is the BearBox website. This website then has links to all retailers who use the delivery system associated with central management system 104. In this way, customers who wish to only order goods over the interact if they are being delivered by the delivery system controlled by the central management system 104 can have direct access to those retailers which provide the service.

The BearBox) website may also provide means for the customer to change their password (which provides secure access to the website). A BearBox(D may also be purchased using the website.

Once the customer 102 has placed an order with the retailer 100 requesting BearBox delivery, the retailer 100 communicates with the BearBox central management system 104 via communication lines 126. The communication lines 126 are preferably provided via the internet. During this communication, the central management system 104 provides the retailer 100 with an authorization code to be used during the remainder of the delivery process. A computer terminal 302 of the retailer is conuccted to the communication lines 126 via a communications interface 322. A computer terminal 306 or processor of the central management system 126 is connected to the communication lines 126 via a communications interface 324.

That is, the central management system receives a message electronically from the retailer 100. In practice this message will be received from a computer systems associated with the retailer 100. Responsive to such message, the central management system 104 transmits messages electronically to the retailer computer system.

Thereafter, the retailer 100 communicates with the logistic centre 106 via communication line 122, again preferably provided via the internet. The computer 302 is connected to communication lines 122 via communication interface 320. A computer 308 of the logistics centre is connected to the communications lines 122 via a communications interface 332.

The retailer provides the logistic centre 106 with details of the delivery to be made, including the authorization code provided by the central management system 104 to the retailer. The communication between the retailer and the logistics centre is by means of electronic messages exchanged between their respective computer systems.

Thereafter, the logistic centre 106 communicates with the BearBox central management system 104 via communication link 124, again preferably provided via the internet. The computer 308 and computer 306 are connected to communication lines 124 via communication interfaces 336 and 330 respectively.

The logistic centre 106 uses the authorization code provided by the retailer 100 to initiate Communication With the central management system 104. In response to a valid authorization code, the central management system 104 communicates with the logistic centre 106 to confirm delivery details, including providing an authorization access code or access code.

The communication between the logistics centre and the central management system is again by means of electronic messages.

The authorization code is effectively a sequential number, issued each time the retailer makes a new booking, and is used primarily for reference and as a means of searching for a particular booking's details. The access code or authorization access code is the code that opens the secure box when typed in at a keypad, or entered by other means. It is the authorization code that the retailer passes on to the carrier.

In confirming delivery details, the BearBox central management system 104 communicates with the secure box 108 via communication link 116 to establish that the secure box 108 is fully functional and that it is available to accept delivery. The computer 306 and a controller 312 of the secure box are connected to communication lines 116 via communication interfaces 326 and 344 respectively.

The availability of delivery may be determined by, for example, deliveries already arranged to be made to the box which would result in the box being full at particular times.

As will be discussed in further detail hereinbelow, the communication link 116 is preferably a wireless link. The communication between the central management system and the secure box is by exchange of electronic messages, as will be described in further detail hereinafter.

Once the BearBox central management system 104 has established the functionality and availability of the secure box 108, then it communicates with the logistics centre 106 to arrange an appropriate delivery slot. Preferably, the delivery slot will be limited to a particular time window. That is, the logistic centre 106 will be provided with a particular time window or date window for making delivery to the secure box.

In addition, the central management system 104 will provide the logistic centre 106 with an access code or authorization access code for the secure box 108. The BearBox central management system 104 will then communicate the access code or authorization access code provided to the logistic centre 106 to the secure box 108, together with the details of any date or time window allocated to the logistic centre 106 and associated with the access code.

In an alternative arrangement, the logistic centre may not receive the access code from the central management system. In this alternative arrangement, the logistic centre obtains the - access code by accessing the Bear Box website, using a password or other secure means, to retrieve the access code for the delivery.

Thereafter, the logistic centre 106 provides details of the authorization code for access to the secure box 108 to a delivery agent 110 or delivery carrier, preferably either a delivery van or delivery person, via communication link 112, which may be a wireless link. The computer 308 and a controller 310 of the delivery agent are connected to communication lines 112 via communication interfaces 334 and 338 respectively.

The delivery van I 10 will of course also carry the goods for delivery. The delivery agent will also be provided with the date and time window for which the authorization code is valid.

In this way the logistic centre 106 when arranging and agreeing the delivery window with the central management system 104, may be able to arrange for deliveries in a particular geographical area to be made on the same day or within the same time window. This may make use of delivery agents by the logistic centre 106 much more efficient, and dramatically reduce the number of failed deliveries.

The delivery agent then delivers the goods for delivery to the secure box 108 within the time window, using the authorization code. The details of the secure box 108 are described in further detail hereinbelow, but in this embodiment the box is provided with a keypad for entry of the authorization code. When the authorization code is entered in the secure box by the delivery agent, a signal is communicated to the BearBox central management system via communication link 116 to indicate that the delivery has been made. In response to such signal, the BearBox(D central management system 104 may communicate the successful delivery to any or all of the customer 102, the retailer 100 and the logistic centre 106.

The central management system 104 is, as discussed herein above, preferably associated with a website, in this preferred embodiment the BearBox.com website. The website may additionally provide means for the customer, retailer, or logistic centre to monitor an order of goods and the progress of delivery.

As discussed above the website associated with the central management system 104 may provide an e-commerce portal to the websites of retailers using the BearBox central management system 104 to organise deliveries. In such a way, customers 102 having an account with the BearBox@) central management system 104 and only wishing to order delivery of goods where the BearBox delivery procedure can be applied, will be able to access all retailers supporting the BearBox delivery system through the BearBox@ website of the BearBox() central management system 104.

The implementation of the secure box 108 in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described further with reference to Figure 2. The secure box 108 is a simple to use box for depositing goods delivered to the premises of a customer, such as a private house, when the customer is absent. Access to the box will be available to the customer at any time by means of a key. It is envisaged that in certain embodiments the customer may have a master access code for accessing the BearBox. As discussed herein above, access to all others such as delivery agents will be limited by means of a time windowed access code.

Referring to Figure 2, the control electronics 20 for the secure box 108 will comprise the following main blocks: a solar panel 200; tamper/tilt alarms 202; control electronics 204; a power converter 206; a buzzer 208; a keypad 210; an LCD display 212; a battery 214; a GSM(0 modem 216 including a slot for a SIM card 218; and a GSM) aerial 220.

The GSM modem 216 is preferably a dual band 900/1800 with a" SIM card 218, connected to the internal GSM aerial 220. The SIM card may be a "pay as you go" SIM card. In this way the secure box 108 can communicate with the BearBox central management system 104 via a wireless linl; providing the communication link 116. Although a GSM modem is used in this preferred embodiment, other wireless technology may be provided for communicating on the communication link 116, for example UMTS) technology or Bluetooth) technology.

The solar panel 200 is intended to provide power to the various electronic elements, and also to charge the battery 214. The dimensions of the solar panel 200 are chosen to suit the power requirements of the unit 20 and the recharge parameters of the battery 214. In the preferable embodiment, the solar panel 200 is dimensioned to provide sufficient power based on one hour of direct sunlight in every 24 hours. The battery 214 itself is selected to suit power requirements for a maximum daily usage based on estimated figures. A facility for external recharging may be supplied to charge new or abused batteries 214 or to accept local power if suitable and available without compromise to the security of the system. The power converter 206 is preferably provided to convert the power from the solar cell 200, or from an external charger to charge the battery 214.

In an alternative embodiment, the unit may be powered directly form a mains power supply. ]O

The control electronics 204 in the preferred embodiment is a microprocessor based card containing non-volatile memory, a real time clock, a tamper monitor, a GSM modem interface, LCD drivers, a microphone and speaker drives, deadlock controls, and configuration control software for the unit. The implementation of such control electronics will be well within the scope of someone skilled in the art.

The LCD display 212 will preferably be a small display mounted in a prominent position on the outside of the secure box 108.

The buzzer 208 is preferably provided to provide a small audible warning device to signal, for example, menu selection confirmations and to detect alarm conditions.

The keypad 210 is used to obtain access to the secure box 108 by both the customer 102 and the delivery agent, and preferably also to enter information as will be described further hereinbelow for communication to the BearBox central management system 104. The keypad 210 and the LCD display 212 will be used in tandem, with the LCD display 212 providing prompts for the information to be entered via the keypad 210. In addition an LED backlight may be added to the LCD display to enable viewing at night.

The design of the detailed mechanical aspects of the secure box 108 is outside the scope of the present invention. The size of the secure box 108 may vary according to different applications, and a customer 102 may be able to choose different sizes of secure box 108 to be fitted at their preferred location. In a preferred implementation, it is intended that the box will be of a size to take two crates of wine or beer, or a household weekly shop. The basic model will be a single box with an opening lid or side. The solar panel 200 discussed herein above wild preferably be positioned in the lid of the box. The solar panel 200 wild either be mounted behind a toughened plastic panel, or be of a toughened glass construction. The LCD display 212 and keypad 210 are also mounted in a prominent position on the outside of the box. The design of the box is such that damage to the solar panel 200, keypad 210, or LCD display 212 will not enable access to the interior of the box. In a preferable embodiment, the secure box 108 is provided with a mechanical override key activated lock which will allow access to the box in the case of the electronic circuitry failing for whatever reason.

The secure box may also be provided with means for fixing removable panels thereto. In this way an owner of a BearBox unit can choose a style of panelling, which perhaps best suit the environment in which the box is located, and change the appearance of the BearBox.

Access to the box can be made by the owner at any time by means of a mechanical key or by entering the PIN number via the local keypad located on the secure box. Access to the box can also be made by delivery agents by entering their unique time-windowed keycode via the keypad. The keycode, and the associated time window, is downloaded by the BearBoxcentral management system 104 directly to the secure box 108 via the GSM modem link.

The keycode is preferably encrypted by the central management system 104 before downloading. Once access to the secure box 108 is gained, a confirmation status message will be uploaded to the BearBox central management system] 04.

In an alternative embodiment described further hereinbelow, the delivery agent may be able to access the secure box using a wireless link between the box and a portable unit carried by the delivery agent.

Various alternative implementations of the control of the secure box will now be described.

There are various modes of operation in which access to the secure box may be provided.

These modes will now be described, and it should be apparent to one skilled in the art that various combinations of these modes may also be used.

In a first mode, the authorisation access code is transmitted form the central management system to the secure box 108 and the logistics centre 106. The communications interface 342 of the secure box comprises a user interface incorporating an alphanumeric keypad. The keypad may be any one of a number of designs, and may alternatively be only a numeric keypad or only an alphabetic keypad.

The delivery agent ids provided with the authorisation access code by the logistics centre 106. The delivery agent may physically obtain the authorisation access code from the logistics centre. In a preferred embodiment, the logistics centre transmits the authorisation code via communications interface 334 on link 112 to the delivery agent, which receives the code at communication interface 338. The processor 310 and communication interface 338 may be provided in a van or in a portable device carried by the delivery agent. The processor 310 is also associated with a display for displaying the authorisation access code received at the communication interface 338. The authorisation access code preferably includes an authorised time window within which the code may be used, and this is also displayed to the delivery agent.

In this mode of operation, the delivery agent then enters the authorisation access code in the keypad of the user interface 342, to thereby gain access to the secure box 108.

In a further mode, the goods which are being delivered may have a goods authorisation code associated therewith which forms part of the access code required to access the secure box. In this mode, the delivery agent may receive a first part of the authorisation access code, which may be termed a carrier authorisation code, as described above. The second part of the authorisation access code, associated with the goods, is needed as well in order to gain access to the secure box. The goods authorisation access code may be provided on the goods themselves or on paperwork associated with goods. The goods authorisation code may be provided in encoded form, such as a bar-cod display. In this case, the delivery agent is provided with a bar-code scanner to read the bar-code and display the goods authorisation code. Where the delivery agent is provided with a portable device for receiving a part of the authorisation access code from the logistics centre 106, the same portable device may incorporate the bar-code scanner.

Where two such parts of the access authorisation code are provided, access to the secure box may be provided by a simple combination of the two parts For example the delivery agent may be issued with a six digit code, and the goods to be delivered may be associated with a four digit code. Combining the two into a ten digit code gives the authorisation access code.

Alternative arrangements may exist. For example, it may be required to first enter the carrier authorisation code, and if this is accepted then enter the goods authorisation code.

In a further mode of operation the user interface 342 may include a communications interface for communicating with a remote device, either in conjunction with or in place of the keypad.

JO The remote device may be a portable device carried by the delivery agent, and instead of entering the authorisation access code via the keypad, the delivery agent may simply enter an authorisation access code stored directly in the portable device via the remote communication link. For example, if the logistics centre transmits an authorisation code to the delivery agent having a portable device, the device is merely stored in a memory associated with the processor 310. The delivery agent then accesses the secure box by communicating the authorisation code via the communications interface 340 to the communication link 114, which is received by the communication interface of the user interface 342.

The communication link 114 may be any type of remote or wireless link. Examples are an infra-red link or a Bluetooth link.

In a further mode of operation, access to the secure box may be enabled responsive to a combination of the remote link and the keypad.

In a further mode of operation, a bar-code display may be provided on the outside of the secure box] 08. The delivery agent, having a portable device including a bar-code scanner, may then scan the bar-code to retrieve at least a part of the authorisation access code. This part of the authorisation access code may be used in combination with any part described hereinabove to access the secure box, either using the keypad or the remote link to the

portable device.

In different mode of operation, the authorisation access code may be provided solely in the form of a bar-code display on the outside of the secure box, the delivery agent scanning the bar-code using a portable device to retrieve the full authorisation access code, the authorisation access code then being entered at the user interface using either the keypad of the remote link. In this mode, as discussed above, such a barcode display may only represent part of the authorisation access code.

In particular in this mode the authorisation access code provided by the bar-code display on the secure box can be considered to be a box authorisation code and may be equivalent to the carrier authorisation code. The full access authorisation code is then obtained from scanning the goods authorisation code provided on the goods for delivery. The box authorisation code will be fixed, because of the nature of the bar-code display, but the goods authorisation code will vary. Thus the central management system will transmit at least the goods authorisation code part of the authorisation access code to the secure box.

From the above description it will be apparent that many different combinations exist, and the skilled reader will be able to derive from the above combinations other than those described.

In the above the invention has been described from the perspective of the delivery of goods.

The invention may also operate for a customer to return goods. In this arrangement the goods are left in the secure box by the customer, and either the retailer or the central management system notified. The delivery agent then accesses the secure box in exactly the same manner to retrieve the goods. Obviously in this case no goods authorisation access code can be provided on the goods themselves, but it may be provided to the delivery agent on paperwork associate with the return of the goods.

The technique of providing an authorisation access codes with at least two parts (for example with a carrier authorisation code and a goods authorisation code) is particularly advantageous in ensuring secure delivery.

Instructions for using the secure box 108 are preferably displayed on the LCD display, which preferably has a simple to use English language menu of commands and messages, for example "enter PIN number", "wrong PIN number please re-enter" etc. The precise layout of the menu structure is outside the scope of the present invention.

As indicated by the tamper/tilt alarms 202 in Figure 2, the box 108 is preferably provided with electronics to detect unauthorized tampering. If a tamper is detected by means of a movement and tamper switch arrangement then an emergency call or alarm is established to the BearBox central management system 104, and if necessary action taken.

Preferably, the secure box 108 additionally monitors the condition of the internal battery 214, and establishes an emergency or alarm call to the BearBox central management system 104 in the event of the battery level falling below a certain level. The battery level at which such alarm is triggered is linked to the time of day, such that a shorter battery life is acceptable in the morning (when power will be provided by the solar panel) but a much longer battery life will be necessary in the evening time.

The keypad 210 may also be used by the delivery agent to enter information as to the status of the secure box 108. After making the delivery to the secure box 108, the delivery agent may be prompted by the LCD display to provide information on the status of the box. For example the LCD display may prompt the delivery agent to enter information as to whether the box is now full, empty, or half-full. After the delivery is made, the LCD display may also provide a continuation code to the delivery agent, which is also communicated to the BearBox central management system 104.

In a further preferable embodiment, a bar code may be incorporated into the inside of the secure box, and this may be scanned by a handheld device carried by the delivery agent which will act as proof of delivery for the delivery agent.

The Bear Box central management system 104 is preferably able to download status information from the secure box 108 at any time, including the battery level and whether goods have been delivered to the box, including identity of the goods delivered to the box by virtue of the authorization code used by the delivery agent.

The BearBox(D central management system 104 may in addition periodically set and update the real time clock in the secure box 108. Whenever the box is opened, a time stamp and status message will be automatically transmitted to the BearBox(g' central management system 104, including an identification of the means (access code or key) used to open the box.

In the preferable embodiment, the communication between the secure box 108 and the BearBox central management system 104 using the GSM link utilises SMS messages.

The SMS messages will cater for the following communications: 1. Update time from server to box; 2. Update validation PIN number. This defines a PIN number and a start time/date and ] O stop time/date for the validation window. The number of separate PIN numbers and time windows which can be stored in the box is variable dependent upon the implementation of the electronics in the box. Expired PIN numbers are deleted automatically and an appropriate message sent back to the BearBox central management system 104.

3. Request status from box.

4. Status from box. This dehmes any current alarms, for example, tamper alarm, battery low alarm or illegal PIN entry alann. This message preferably also senses the current box status of empty, half full or full.

5. Box delivery has been made. This message is sent each time the box is opened and also contains the status information as defined in 4.

An example implementation in the BearBox central management system and the secure box 108, conforming to SMS protocol is as follows: Poll from server to box: 1) Set PIN and time validation window DD.MM.YY.hh.mm.ss: PIN=XXXXXXXX: ON= DD.MM.YY.hh.mm.ss: OFF= DD.MM.YY.hh.mm.ss: 2) Request status DD.MM.YY.hh.mm.ss RS Poll from box to server: Time Stamp: Current Status: Expired PIN DD.MM.YY.hh.mm.ss: B=x: C=y: O=n: T=z: L=v: E=XXXXXXXX B= Battery Low alarm (=1 battery=low,=0 battery OK) T= Tamper alarm (=1 tamper active,=0 no tamper) 0= Opened (=1 Box lid accessed,=0=No access) L= Box lid not closed timeout expired (=l=Box lid open alarm, =0=box lid closed OK) C= Box Condition (=3=Full,=2=Half Full,=1=Empty) E= Expired PIN Number time window has elapsed without entry.

(=0 =no expired PINs, or =Pin No) Figure 5(a) to 5(j) show various flow diagrams representing the operation of the control electronics of the secure box 108 and the user interface.

In a preferred embodiment, the BearBox website provides a hub for the functionality of the whole delivery system. All parties involved - the retailer, the carrier and the customer - can access the status of deliveries through the BearBox website using appropriate passwords. In addition, the carrier may preferably retrieve the authorization access code, or a part thereof, for snaking the delivery from the BearBox(D website. The BearBox website preferably provides an e-commerce portal to all participating retailers supporting the BearBox delivery system. Thus, customers can be confident that all retailers accessed through the BearBox site provide the secure delivery system unique to BearBox.

The BearBox itself, the control of which is preferably integrated into the BearBox website, may be adapted according to a particular customer's needs, and various models may be available. The BearBox(D may incorporate refrigeration means, either solid-state or conventional or both. Retailers and/or delivery carriers may be provided with special thermal packaging for keeping products cool or warm for extended periods.

Claims

1. An access system comprising: a secure unit; a logistics centre provided with details of an access to be made to the secure unit; a central management system adapted to communicate with the logistics centre to confirm access details, and to transmit an access code to the secure unit, wherein the secure unit is adapted to enable access thereto responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

2. An access system according to claim 1, wherein the central management system is adapted to provide the access code to the logistics centre responsive to a request from the logistics centre.

3. An access system according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the logistics centre provides the access code to a user for user access to the secure unit.

4. An access system according to claim 3 wherein the provision of the access code to the user is under the control of the central management system.

5. An access system according to any preceding claim wherein the secure unit is adapted to transmit a notification to the central management system responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

6. An access system according to any preceding claim or claim 2 in which the logistics centre is adapted to receive details of the access to be made to the secure unit.

7. An access system according to claim 6 in which the logistics centre is adapted to receive details of an access to be made from a customer or a retailer.

8. An access system according to any one of claims I to 7 wherein the access code is associated with a date window within which the access code is valid.

9. An access system according to any one of claims] to 7 wherein the access code is associated with a time window within which the access code is valid.

10. An access system according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the secure unit includes a lock.

ll.An access system according to claim 10 wherein the lock is adapted to be opened responsive to use of the access code at the user interface.

12. An access system according to any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein the access is for the delivery or collection of goods to or from the secure unit.

13. An access system according to claim 12 when dependent upon any one of claims 7 to 11 wherein the access code is provided to a delivery agent or carrier as a goods authorisation access code.

14. An access system according to claim 13 wherein the goods authorisation code is provided on paperwork associated with the goods.

l O

15. An access system according to claim 14 wherein the goods authorisation code is provided on the goods.

16. An access system according to claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the goods authorization code is provided in encoded form.

17. An access system according to claim 16 wherein the goods authorization code is provided asabar code.

18. A central management system for an access system comprising: a first communications interface for communicating with a logistics centre provided with details of an access to be made, a second communications interface for communicating with a secure unit which enables access thereto responsive to use of an access code at a user interface thereof, the central management system being adapted to communicate with the logistics centre to confirm access details, and to transmit an access code to the secure storage unit.

l 9. A central management system according to claim 18, being adapted to provide the access code to the logistics centre responsive to a request from the logistics centre.

20. A central management system according to claim 18 or 19 wherein the logistics centre provides the access code to a user for user access to the secure unit.

21. A central management system according to claim 20 wherein the provision of the access code to the user is under the control of the central management system.

22. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 18 tO 21 wherein the central management system is adapted to receive notification from the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

23. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 18 to 22 in which the central management system is adapted to provide the logistics centre with the access code.

24. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 18 to 23 wherein the access code is associated with a date window within which the access code is valid.

25. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 18 to 24 wherein the access code is associated with a time window within which the access code is valid.

26. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 18 to wherein the secure unit includes a lock.

27. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 18 to 26 wherein the access system is a system for the delivery or Collection of goods to or from the secure unit.

28. A method for enabling access to a secure unit comprising: providing a logistics eentre with details of an access to be made to a secure unit; confirming access details between the logistics centre and a central management system; transmitting an access code from the central management system to the secure unit; and enabling access to the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

29. A method according to claim 28 further comprising providing the access code from the central management system to the logistics centre responsive to a request from the logistics centre.

30. An method according to claim 28 or claim 29 further comprising providing the access code from the logistics centre to a user for user access to the secure unit.

31. A method according to claim 30 wherein the provision of the access code to the user is under the control of the central management system.

32.A method according to any one of claims 28 to 31 further including providing a communications interface between the secure unit and the central management system; and providing a communications interface between the central management system and the logistics centre.

33. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 32 further comprising the step of transmitting a notification to the central management system from the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at the user interface.

34. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 33 further comprising receiving details of the access to be made to the secure unit at the logistics centre.

35. A method according to claim 34 in which the logistics centre is adapted to receive details of an access to be made from a customer or a retailer.

36. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 35 further comprising providing the logistics centre with the access code from the central management system.

37. A method according to claim 36 in which the logistics centre provides details of the access code to enable access to the secure unit.

38. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 37 further comprising the step of associating the access code with a date window within which the access code is valid.

39. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 38 further comprising the step of associating the access code with a time window within which the access code is valid.

40. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 39 wherein the secure unit includes a lock.

41. A method according to claim 40 further comprising the step of adapting the lock to be opened responsive to use of the access code at the user interface.

42. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 41 wherein the access includes the delivery or collection of goods to or from the secure unit.

43. A method according to claim 42 further comprising the step of providing the access code to a delivery agent or carrier as a goods authorization access code.

44. A method according to claim 43 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorization code on paperwork associated with the goods.

45. A method according to claim 43 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorization code on the goods.

46. A method according to claim 44 or claim 45 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorization code in encoded form.

47. A method for enabling access to a secure unit substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of the Figures.

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47. A method according to claim 46 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorization code as a bar code.

48. An access system substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of the Figures.

49. A central management system for an access system substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of the Figures.

50. A method for enabling access to a secure unit substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of the Figures.

Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows: 1. An access system comprising: a secure unit; a logistics centre provided with details of an access to be made to the secure unit; a central management system adapted to communicate with the logistics centre to confirm access details, and to transmit an access code to the secure unit, wherein the secure unit is adapted to enable access thereto responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

2. An access system according to claim 1 wherein the logistics centre provides the access code to a user for user access to the secure unit.

3. An access system according to claim 2 wherein the provision of the access code to the user is under the control of the central management system.

4. An access system according to any preceding claim wherein the secure unit is adapted to transmit a notification to the central management system responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

5. An access system according to any preceding claim in which the logistics centre is adapted to receive details of the access to be made to the secure unit.

6. An access system according to claim 5 in which the logistics centre is adapted to receive details of an access to be made from a customer or a retailer.

7. An access system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the access code is associated with a date window within which the access code is valid.

8. An access system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the access code is associated with a time window within which the access code is valid.

9. An access system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the secure unit includes a lock.

lO.An access system according to claim 9 wherein the lock is adapted to be opened responsive to use of the access code at the user interface.

< . . . . . , . I, t. , . I 11. An access system according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the access is for the delivery or collection of goods to or from the secure unit.

12. An access system according to claim 1 1 when dependent upon any one of claims 6 to l O wherein the access code is provided to a delivery agent or carrier as a goods authorization access code.

13. An access system according to claim 12 wherein the goods authorization code is provided on paperwork associated with the goods.

14. An access system according to claim 13 wherein the goods authorization code is provided on the goods.

15. An access system according to claim 13 or claim 14 wherein the goods authorization code is provided in encoded form.

16. An access system according to claim 15 wherein the goods authorization code is provided as a bar code.

17. A central management system for an access system comprising: a first communications interface for communicating with a logistics centre provided with details of an access to be made, a second communications interface for communicating with a secure unit which enables access thereto responsive to use of an access code at a user interface thereof, the central management system being adapted to communicate with the logistics centre to confirm access details, and to transmit an access code to the secure storage unit.

18. A central management system according to claim 17 wherein the logistics centre provides the access code to a user for user access to the secure unit.

19. A central management system according to claim 18 wherein the provision of the access code to the user is under the control of the central management system.

20. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims] 7 to l9 wherein the central management system is adapted to receive notification from the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof. .

1. ! i ' . ' .: . . : 21. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 17 to in which the central management system is adapted to provide the logistics centre with the access code.

22. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 17 to 21 wherein the access code is associated with a date window within which the access code is valid.

23. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 17 to 22 wherein the access code is associated with a time window within which the access code is valid.

24. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 17 to 23 wherein the secure unit includes a lock.

25. A central management system for an access system according to any one of claims 17 to 24 wherein the access system is a system for the delivery or collection of goods to or from the secure unit.

26. A method for enabling access to a secure unit comprising: providing a logistics cenke with details of an access to be made to a secure unit; confirming access details between the logistics centre and a central management system; transmitting an access code from the central management system to the secure unit; and enabling access to the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at a user interface thereof.

27. An method according to claim 26 further comprising providing the access code from the logistics centre to a user for user access to the secure unit.

28. A method according to claim 27 wherein the provision of the access code to the user is under the control of the central management system.

29. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 28 further including providing a communications interface between the secure unit and the central management system; and providing a communications interface between the central management system and the logistics centre.

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30. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 29 further comprising the step of transmitting a notification to the central management system from the secure unit responsive to use of the access code at the user interface.

31. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 30 further comprising receiving details of the access to be made to the secure unit at the logistics centre.

32. A method according to claim Olin which the logistics centre is adapted to receive details of an access to be made from a customer or a retailer.

33. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 32 further comprising providing the logistics centre with the access code from the central management system.

34. A method according to claim 33 in which the logistics centre provides details of the access code to enable access to the secure unit.

35. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 34 further comprising the step of associating the access code with a date window within which the access code is valid.

36. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 35 further comprising the step of associating the access code with a time window within which the access code is valid.

37. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 36 wherein the secure unit includes a lock.

38. A method according to claim 37 further comprising the step of adapting the lock to be opened responsive to use of the access code at the user interface.

39. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 38 wherein the access includes the delivery or collection of goods to or from the secure unit.

40. A method according to claim 39 further comprising the step of providing the access code to a delivery agent or carrier as a goods authorisation access code.

41. A method according to claim 40 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorisation code on paperwork associated with the goods.

42. A method according to claim 40 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorisation code on the goods.

( ( i, ( . . . ( (, . . . ( I 43. A method according to claim 41 or claim 42 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorization code in encoded form.

44. A method according to claim 43 further comprising the step of providing the goods authorization code as a bar code.

45. An access system substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of the Figures.

46. A central management system for an access system substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of the Figures.