GB2569771A

GB2569771A - Improvements to mail boxes

Info

Publication number: GB2569771A
Application number: GB1714259.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Anthony Downey Graham
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-09-05
Filing date: 2017-09-05
Publication date: 2019-07-03
Also published as: GB201714259D0

Abstract

Parcel box 1 comprises container 2 defining storage space 8, fixing points 3 for mounting to a structure (eg a wall or door), access lid 6, and a lockable door. The access lid may include a lock and be unlockable using an encrypted code sent to a smart phone. The access lid may include a hinged flap which prevents access to the storage space when the lid is opened. The access cover may automatically lock the storage volume when an object is placed into the parcel box. The delivery receptacle may be secured through a letterbox of a door using a retractable ratchet mechanism, the device biasing the mail box against the door. The parcel box may include an alarm to emit an audible alarm upon tamper detection. A camera may be provided to capture photographic images of the interior of the parcel box/of the surrounding environment.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS TO MAIL BOXES

Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to mail boxes. More particularly, but not exclusively, it relates to mail boxes that can be mounted on a door or wall, for use in receiving parcels that are too large to fit through conventional door letterboxes.

Background of the Invention [0002] It is known to provide a mail item receptacle for a property, for use by postal workers in mail or parcel delivery to that property. Such mail boxes enable an occupant of a property to securely receive mail or relatively small parcels when no one is available to attend to a postal worker who wishes to deliver a parcel for the property. In such circumstances, the postal worker will place the packet of mail or parcel due to the property in the mail box, and a note through the doors letterbox alerting the property occupant of the existence of the parcel, so that they can retrieve it when they return to the property. Such mail boxes will sometimes have a key and lock access to the inside, so that the parcel is retrieved only by a recipient possessing a key.

[0003] The makers of these mail boxes claim that they are designed among other advantages to overcome the inconvenience caused to the property occupant, if upon an unsuccessful parcel delivery by a postal worker - who finds no one available at a property to collect a parcel, the property occupant is subsequently necessitated to visit the local mail sorting office, where long queues and I or low-staffing levels are common, often operating under fixed and inflexible opening hours, to collect their parcel.

[0004] In one embodiment, such a mail box may comprise a box that is temporarily or permanently affixable to the letterbox of a door by use of mounting means that are often locked from the inside of the building, to secure the mail box to the door.

-2[0005] A similar parcel delivery option is that used by some mail delivery companies, who use last mile parcel delivery, whereby they designate “drop-off points” often in supermarket lobbies or near petrol stations, at which electromechanical arrays of storage boxes are installed. Each locked safe-type storage box in the array is operable by a unique access code, which upon entry on a keypad by a person to whom the unique code is sent, will grant access to a compartment in which their parcel - delivered earlier by a postal worker - will be waiting. However the inconvenience to a parcel recipient, to leave their house to locate one of these drop-off points - which may be miles away - is not sufficiently addressed by these last-mile delivery innovations. Further, if a person expecting a parcel can only get to a drop off point late in the day, at a time when a supermarket housing one of these drop off points is shut, they will not be able to collect their parcel until the next day that the supermarket is open.

[0006] GB2487595 discloses a container for receiving packages that is accessible via a lockable lid. It attaches to a door of a house or other building by the inclusion of mounting means that pass though the letter box in the door in order for the container to be mounted adjacent the external wall of the door and a securing part of the mounting means to be located adjacent the internal wall of the door. The rationale is to allow temporary mounting of the otherwise bulky and unsightly box when a recipient is not present, whereas at other times when the building’s occupant is not expecting a parcel, it can be stored away.

[0007] Such mail boxes may be equipped with combination lock, or lock and key access means which enable a delivery person to open the box to deposit the parcel, and the proprietor of the building to access the compartment where such parcels have been dropped. They may also allow the use of the door letterbox so that normal letters or other parcels that are small enough to fit through conventional letterboxes can still be delivered.

[0008] However, devices made according to the teaching of prior art documents such as GB2487595 are not ideally suited for the task of receiving

-3parcels. Many of these kinds of mail boxes suffer from various design and security flaws, with the consequence that it is not uncommon for thieves to break into them, or rip them off their mounts and steal them and their contents. Not only are many of such mail boxes too expensive to manufacture, but having one mounting point through the letterbox is also erroneous, in that it provides an “anchor” point from which brute force by a lever tool, crowbar or other breaching equipment could bend the mounting mechanism, forcing the box off its mounting, or ripping it off the door altogether. Further, some door letterboxes are not horizontally aligned, or positioned centrally to the height of the door. Instead, some letterboxes are vertically arraigned in their orientation, and are so arranged to one side of a door. Many others are arraigned near the bottom part of a door. In such an arrangement a mailbox as described in the above prior art cannot be readily fitted through such a letterbox because there would be no space vertically or laterally for their positioning.

[0009] It is the object of the present invention to obviate the problems that beset mail boxes of the prior art, and present a parcel box for use in receiving parcels that are too large to fit through conventional door letterboxes, one that is user friendly and easy to fit, is more secure, can be easily affixed to or removed from a door, a letterbox, or a wall, and is cost effective to manufacture.

Summary of the Invention [0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a parcel box comprising a container and mounting means for mounting the container to a structure, the mounting means comprising at least two fixing points, with at least one fixing point located generally towards the extremities of one section of the container that in use is in proximity to the structure, access means in use for dropping a parcel into the container, a lockable access opening for accessing parcels dropped into the container, a storage space that can be used to store parcels, wherein the mounting means in use enable fixed installation of the container to the structure, to prevent unauthorised access or prising of the container from the structure.

-4[0011] Preferably, the structure comprises a door.

[0012] The door provides a surface upon which the parcel box can be mounted.

[0013] Alternatively, the structure may comprise a wall.

[0014] The wall provides a surface upon which the parcel box can be mounted.

[0015] The structure may comprise a suitable surface on which the parcel box may be mounted.

[0016] Preferably the access means is in communication with the storage space.

[0017] The access means provides a conduit by which a parcel can be securely deposited into the storage space.

[0018] Preferably the access means has access lock means.

[0019] The access lock means prevents unauthorised access to the inside of the container.

[0020] The access means may comprise a coverable opening or lid on the surface of the container.

[0021] Preferably, the access means comprises at least one hinged flap.

[0022] The hinged flap is movable to enable an item to be dropped into the container.

-5[0023] The hinged flap prevents access to the contents of the storage space of the container.

[0024] Preferably the lockable access opening comprises a lockable door disposable generally on the section of the container that in use is in proximity to the structure, and is accessible by key means.

[0025] The lockable door enables access to the storage space of the container, when the container is unmounted from its fixing points.

[0026] Alternatively, the lockable door can be on a section of the container other than that which in use is in proximity to the structure.

[0027] The lockable door enables quick access to the storage space, even when the container is mounted to the structure.

[0028] Preferably the storage space comprises a plurality of compartments, in communication with the access means, each compartment capable of housing at least one parcel.

[0029] The compartments enable the parcel box to receive more than one parcel.

[0030] Preferably, the mounting means comprises a retractable fixing means disposable between the door and the section of the container that is in proximity to the door, and positionable within a letterbox of a door.

[0031] The retractable fixing means prevents unauthorised access or prising of the container from the door.

[0032] Preferably the retractable fixing means is biased generally with spring means to apply a pull force on the container.

-6[0033] The retractable fixing means prevents prising of the container from the door.

[0034] Preferably the fixing points comprise lockable fixing means operable to release the container from the door from within a property a door of which the parcel box is installed.

[0035] The lockable fixing means enable only an authorised person to release the parcel box from its secure mounting position.

[0036] Preferably, the access lock means comprise a coded lock.

[0037] The coded lock enables an authorised person only to have access to the storage space of the parcel box.

[0038] The coded lock may be operable by means of an encrypted code communicated to an authorised user’s mobile phone, and which can be used to lock or unlock the parcel box.

[0039] Preferably, the access means comprise a lid so biased to automatically lock the storage space of the container when an object is placed inside the storage space.

[0040] The lid prevents unauthorised tampering with the contents of the parcel box.

[0041] Preferably, the storage space of the parcel box is accessible only from the inside of a property, a door of which the parcel box is mounted.

[0042] The storage space is adapted to enable access to the contents of the parcel box from within a property.

[0043] Alternatively, the storage space is accessible from both the inside and outside of the property.

-7[0044] The storage space is adapted to enable access to the contents of the parcel box both from within a property, and from outside of the property.

[0045] The storage space of the parcel box may be adapted to be accessible from the outside of the property.

[0046] Preferably, the container is provided with alarm means configurable to detect motion of, or uncharacteristic interference against the box.

[0047] The alarm means comprises an audible alarm.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, the alarm means comprises an alert message sent to the property’s occupant’s phone.

[0049] The alarm means provide a warning in the event of unauthorised attempted dislodgement of the parcel box or other interference against it.

[0050] Preferably, the container is provided with alert means to detect when an object has been placed inside the parcel box.

[0051] Advantageously, such alert means enable the property owner to be alerted when an object has been placed inside the letterbox.

[0052] The alert means may comprise a wired or wireless network using fixed line or mobile phones to alert the property owner of the delivery of a parcel.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively, the alert means may comprise a buzzer.

[0054] The alert means may comprise a mobile application connected to the global world wide web or other communications network.

-8[0055] The alert means may comprise a sensor network adapted to send a signal upon the detection of an object within the parcel box.

[0056] The alert means comprises transceiver means connectable to a communications network.

[0057] Preferably, the parcel box is provided with a microcomputer means [0058] The microcomputer means enable processing of signals from sensors connected to the parcel box.

[0059] The microcomputer means enable communication using transceiver means.

[0060] Preferably, the parcel box is provided with camera means capable of capturing one or more images.

[0061] The camera means enable the parcel box to take photographic images of its contents.

[0062] The camera means enables the parcel box to take photographic images of the surrounding environment.

[0063] The camera means enables the parcel box to process the image to a remote location via the communications network using the microcomputer means and the transceiver means.

[0064] Preferably, the parcel box is provided with microphone means capable of capturing sounds waves and audible signals.

[0065] The microphone means enable the parcel box to capture audible signals and sound waves inside the parcel box, and of the surrounding environment.

-9[0066] Preferably, the parcel box in use is adapted to prevent direct access to a letter box of a door.

[0067] The parcel box covers the letterbox of a door preventing access to the letterbox.

[0068] Alternatively, the parcel box when mounted is adapted to allow access to a letterbox.

[0069] The parcel box is provided with slot means, which in use are in communication with a doors letterbox.

[0070] The slot means enable use of a doors letterbox when the parcel box is mounted thereon.

[0071] Preferably, the parcel box is provided with quick release means for mounting and unmounting onto a door or wall.

[0072] The quick release means enables the parcel box to be seamlessly mounted or removed from a door or wall, from within the inside of a property.

[0073] Preferably, the parcel box is adapted with verification means to provide proof of delivery to a postal worker.

[0074] The verification means can be used by a postal worker as testament that a parcel has been delivered.

[0075] Preferably, the parcel box is adapted with transformation means.

[0076] The transformation means enable the parcel box to be enlargeable or collapsible.

[0077] Other aspects are as set out in the claims herein.

-10Brief Description of the Drawings [0078] An embodiment of the present invention will now be more particularly described by way of example, and with reference to the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a side view of the parcel box mounted on the external section of a door, showing the position of the mounts;

Figure 2 is a side view of the parcel box mounted on a door, showing a “T bar” fixing point securing the mounting points to the door;

Figure 3 is a cross section of the tip of the bolt that affixes to the T bar shown in figure 2;

Figure 4 shows a lockable access door to the storage space of the parcel box;

Figure 5 is a side view of the parcel box showing the position of the hinged flaps;

Figure 6 is a top view of the parcel box showing the parcel box in relation to the door and door frames;

Figure 7 is a magnified side perspective of the parcel box’s hinged flap’s spring loaded catch;

Figure 8 is a frontal elevation of a fixing bracket of the parcel box from the inside of a property showing cams with one side latched;

Figure 9 is a top view of the fixing bracket of the parcel box shown in figure 8, showing both sides latched;

-11Figure 10 is a side cross section of the hole that receives the bolt that holds the parcel box in the door, showing a cap and bot to cover the hole when not in use;

Figure 11 shows a frontal elevation of a section of the door showing a parcel box mounted on a strap arrangement;

Figure 12 shows a “male” T plate that is affixed to the parcel box;

Figure 13 shows a “female” T-plate that co-opts with the male T-plate shown in Figure 12, and that is mounted on the inside of a property;

Figure 14 shows a frontal view of a door from the inside of a property, showing the T-plates of figures 12 and 13 fastened against each other to mount the parcel box outside the property (not shown);

Figure 15 shows a side view of a parcel box affixed to a top section of a door by means of top brackets;

Figure 16 shows a side view of a parcel box affixed to a top section of a door by means of top brackets;

Figure 17 shows a side view of a parcel box affixed to a door by means of a retractable fixing device;

Figure 18 shows a detailed side view of a parcel box affixed to a door by means of a retractable fixing device;

Figure 19 shows a side view of a parcel box affixed to a door by means of an “n-shaped” bracket and an “L plate”, held together by a bolt and screw;

-12Figure 20 shows a side view of the parcel box of figure 19, showing a foam block between the L plate and the internal surface of the door;

Figure 21 is a perspective view of the L plate showing the position of the foam blocks relative to the holes receiving one or more bolts;

Figure 22 shows a side view of a parcel box affixed to a door by means of a an n-shaped bracket and an L plate, held together by a key and padlock;

Figure 23 is a frontal elevation of the n-shaped bracket of the parcel box and the L plate held together by a bolt, viewed from the inside of a property.

Figure 24 is a side view of the parcel box affixed to a door using the nshaped bracket.

Figure 25 is a side view of a raised parcel box affixed to a door using the nshaped bracket, covering the letterbox and held together using a pin.

Figure 26 is a frontal view of the parcel box viewed from the outside of a property, showing the position of the slots on the n-shaped bracket, and a set of pins, with the parcel box lowered, and an unobstructed letterbox.

Figure 27 is a frontal view of the parcel box viewed from the outside of a property, showing the position of the slots on the n-shaped bracket, and a set of pins, with the parcel box raised, and the letterbox obstructed by the parcel box.

Figure 28 is a frontal view of the parcel box mounted onto a door, viewed from the outside of a property, showing the position of the cover and a pin, with the cover of the parcel box open to obstruct the letterbox.

Figure 29 is a side view of the parcel box of the parcel box on a door, showing the position of the cover and a pin, with the cover of the parcel box open to obstruct the letterbox.

-13Details Description of the Embodiments [0079] There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the description.

[0080] Referring now to the figures, in particular figure 1, a parcel box 1 has a container 2 and fixing points 3 for mounting the container 2 to a structure such as an external section of a door 4 or a wall. One fixing point can be adapted to fit through a conventional door letterbox 5, whereas at least one other fixing point can be located generally towards the extremities of one section of the container that in use is in proximity to the door 4 or wall. The parcel box has a cover 6 or opening which is used for dropping a parcel into the container 2. It has a lockable door 7 (figure 3) for accessing parcels dropped into the container 2, a storage space 8 that can be used to store parcels. Once mounted, the fixing points 3 enable fixed installation of the parcel box 1 to a structure such as a door 4 or wall, to prevent unauthorised access or prising of the container from the structure. In one embodiment, one fixing point 3, comprises a pin 3a or bolt that is held in position by an adjuster screw 3b, and that is guided to locate and affix to keyholes 20, 21 (Figures 12 &13) disposed on a set of “T plates”. The pin may be screw threaded, and can be articulated on one end, so as to locate a hole in the parcel box, through a hole 20 of the male T plate, through a hole drilled into the door, with the other end secured by a hole of the female T-plate, and screwed on tightly by the adjuster screw to tightly bias the parcel box against the door.

[0081] If the parcel box is fitted to a door nearer the bottom part, or if it is fitted to the left or right hand side of a door, the fixing points prevent any leverage by a thief that would cause it to be ripped off its anchorage. Further, the size of the box will play a deterrent factor in stopping thieves from tampering with it. However, the additional anchorage or fixing point in the form of the pin 3a through the door 4

-14secured by a sizeable threaded screw 3b prevent any leverage from being applied from gaps between the door and the parcel box. Alternatively, a “handwheel nut” (not shown) in the inside of the property can be provided to operate the pin or bolt. The advantage of this would be to enable the parcel box to be hanged and screwed on.

[0082] The parcel box 1 is can be constructed using metal or heavy duty fabric (such as Nylon), to enable flexibility, portability and storage. It can be integrated into existing doors during manufacturing, so that no additional installation is necessary.

[0083] The compartments 9 (figure 5) on the parcel box 1 comprise sections to enable multiple postings of parcels or mail by different couriers or postal workers. Here, each section could be separately locked to keep each parcel secure. The compartments can be designed to be fixed, or of adjustable value, so as to house either smaller parcels, or larger ones. However, the size of the parcel box’s cover will determine the size of the parcel that can be dropped into the box.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, a hinged flap 10 (figures 5 & 6) of the parcel box is adjacent a cover for the parcel box and is adapted to allow a parcel to be dropped into the storage space, this time divided into compartments 9 within the storage space. However, each flap is designed to restrict access to the contents of the storage space by a person who, for example tries to put his hand through the access means. This can be achieved by means of spring loaded catches 11 and cam lock lever springs 12 on each hinged flap 10, such that the weight of a parcel dropped in the storage space, activates the hinged flap 10, which will be pushed shut, automatically isolating a compartment by subsequently releasing the spring loaded catch 11, and preventing the compartment from being accessed via the cover 6.

[0085] The parcel box 1 can be fitted by way of a set of brackets 13 (figures 8 &9) on the door or the wall. In such an embodiment, the parcel box would then hang on this bracket 13, locking onto it, to be unlocked by an authorised user such

-15as the property occupant. Note that depending on the type of door, the parcel box can be hanged on the top, side or bottom part of the door.

[0086] Additionally, a hole 14 may be drilled through the door 4 (figure 10), or wall to enable mounting of the parcel box. It is important that both embodiments incorporate a quick release mechanism, so that it can be removed easily. Further, a screw threaded bolt 16 and cap 15 may be provided to cover this hole when the parcel box is not mounted on the door or wall. This means that when first installing the parcel box onto a door or wall, a set of tools will be required to drill the hole 14 through which the pin 3a will pass through when mounting the parcel box.

[0087] It may be preferable to adapt the fixing point in the centre of the box to be an easy fit, push-on type fitting, such as a pin that is attached to the box, and passes through the drilled hole in the door. In such an embodiment, a receiving bracket releasable from the inside of the property can be used, or other release catch or lock and key type mechanism. Alternatively, a cam lock can be used to secure hanging brackets that mount the parcel box through a letterbox, with an additional pin to reinforce or anchor the box securely.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, a permanent bracket or “T plate” 17 (female, Figure 13) on the inside of the door is provided, which tightly co-opts with or affixes to another T plate 18 (male, Figure12) fitted to the parcel box, by means of a set of tongues 19 on the female T plate 17 as can be seen in figure 14. This is important to provide a larger surface area for greater and widespread anchorage for the mounting points of the parcel box, and will make it harder for the parcel box to be dislodged off its mounts.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the parcel box is adapted to be connected to a sensors system which detects when a parcel has been delivered and sends signals to a computer router or a radio receiver. This means the parcel box will be provided with a microcomputer and a transceiver that are linked to a mobile phone and or communications network, such that upon delivery of an item into the storage space of the parcel box, the microcomputer would send a text

-16message to the property’s occupant's phone, to a custom mobile app or broadcast on a pre-programmed radio frequency detectable by the property’s occupant and parcel recipient, with a message that a parcel has been delivered, including details such as the time of delivery and weight of the package or even a photo of the package. In order for this function to be available, the property occupant’s details will be required at the point of sale, for engineers to configure this functionality into the electronics of the system. However, it must be noted that when the owner of a parcel box changes phone numbers, they would need to inform the manufacturer of the parcel box, of the new phone number so that the electronics are updated with the new details. Similarly, if a parcel box owner changes properties, they would need to install their parcel box at the new property. It is also important to note that if a, landlord owns a property that has a parcel box with communication features installed, each time a new tenant takes up residence, the system would need to be updated with details of the new tenant.

[0090] As an option, the parcel box can be provided with a push-lock that can be pressed to lock the parcel box cover, preventing any access to it, other than by key means. In this embodiment, the parcel box can be adapted to inform the owner whether it’s cover has been locked, for example by a person delivering a parcel. Further, it can be adapted to inform the owner when someone has tried to tamper with it. In such a scenario, the parcel box is provided with tilt and motion sensors and can detect when these are triggered, so as to send signals to the owner’s phone or computer, and receive instructions from a remote location, via a wired or wireless network to lock and secure the storage space, to unlock the parcel box, or to sound an alarm. This means that the parcel box utilises connection to one or more of a wired or wireless network, such as a landline phone line, a mobile phone, radio or internet network or other connectivity technology, to send a message to the property’s occupant that it has been locked, or that there has been tampering. The owner can then input an instruction into their phone or computer to lock or unlock the parcel box or sound an alarm, or to activate a camera or a microphone. One way of achieving the remote lock function is by having an electronically activatable solenoid lock.

-17[0091] The parcel box 1 may be adapted with a visual indicator or audio alarm to alert the owner or property occupant that a parcel or mail has been inserted into the parcel box. This is important when someone is expecting an important parcel and needs to access it as soon as it is delivered. In this embodiment, the visual indicator may comprise a coloured device which is visible on the inside of the door when the lid of the parcel box has been lifted, or when an item of post has been deposited. This saves the property occupant from having to continually check whether an item has been delivered, since the visual indicator will confirm, when an item has been placed in the parcel box. One way of achieving this is by using a device or method that is connected from the mailbox on the exterior, through the door (or through the letterbox, or the extra fixing points of the mailbox), to the interior. A further advantage of this visual indicator is to assist people with sight or hearing problems.

[0092] Additionally, the parcel box is adapted to be fixable to a door 4 over the top brackets 22, 23 (figures 15 and 16). These go over the top of the door 4 to attach to the parcel box 1 on the outside. Once the door has been closed, the brackets 22 are adapted to “lock” onto the door 4, with the external end of the hanging brackets attaching to the parcel box 1 using one or more hinges (not shown). This is important to prevent tampering, since trying to pull or twist the parcel box 1 off its mount will result in it swinging up and down on the hinges, or from side to side. A pivot type fixing can also be used to achieve this. The ends of the brackets can have a pin 24, 25 (Figure 15 and 16) attached to prevent the brackets from being pulled through the gaps between the door and the door frame, and over the top of the door.

[0093] An added advantage of this fixing arrangement is that the parcel box will be more visible to people outside such as neighbours, who can keep an eye on the box, especially if fences and foliage block the middle and lower part of the door from view. Further, it will also deter tampering by small children who will be too short to reach the box.

-18[0094] Referring to Figure 11, the parcel box may be provided by one or more cable-wire type straps 26 and fixings thereof as an optional or additional mounting mechanism. Such straps are adapted to clip or unclip against the door to mount the parcel box to the door. In such an embodiment, one or more pins will still be necessary to provide additional anchorage and further tightly secure the parcel box against the door.

[0095] In another embodiment, one fixing point for mounting the parcel box 1 comprises a retractable fixing device 27 (figures 17 and 18) that can be located within the property, generally adjacent a door’s letterbox - if the parcel box is mounted on a door, that is positionable within a letterbox of a door, and that has on one end a ratchet type mechanism and on the other end a fixing to the parcel box, connected by a suitable string or chain means such as cable wire. A fixing switch can be provided to engage the ratchet, or reverse the gears, so that the parcel box can be tightened or loosened. This is important because the ratchet mechanism will apply a pull force 28 when tightened to bias the parcel box against the door, preventing prising of the parcel box container from the door.

[0096] The parcel box 1 may be adapted to be removed from a door 4 or wall, by a person within the property without the use of mechanical tools. This is advantageous over existing parcel boxes many of which require a level of technical skills to install onto a door or wall. One way of achieving an easy mount mechanism is to have cams 13a (figure 8) on a fixing bracket 13b, affixed to the inside of the door, over the door’s letterbox that latch against slots cut out on metal brackets 13 (figures 8 &9) that at one end protrude through a door’s letterbox 5, and that are affixed to the parcel box 1 at the other end. An alternative way of achieving this is to have an affixing n-shaped bracket 29 (figure 19), which passes through a letterbox 5 to cooperate with an angled L shaped plate 30 inside the property, the L shaped plate 30 being laterally larger than the size of the letter box 5 (Figure 23), such that the n-shaped bracket 29 and the L shaped plate 30 are fastened together by means of a padlock 35 (figure 22) or a screw threaded bolt 31 (figure 19) , held tightly and in position by a screw 32, and together abut against the inside wall of the door below and adjacent the letterbox

5. In order for the rough brackets not to damage the aesthetics of the inside of the door 4, one or more hard foam blocks 33 (figure 20 and 21) or silicone blocks may be provided to provide cushioning between the brackets and the door 4. For this to be possible, the n-shaped bracket 29, and the L plate 30 is provided with screw holes 34 (figure 21) which can receive a bolt or padlock 35 (figure 22). This means that a person expecting a parcel can mount the parcel box outside the door 4, adjacent the letterbox, and lock it with the padlock 35, and when the parcel is delivered, they can use the key 36, to open the padlock, unmount the parcel box 1 from the door, and store it away. For the purposes of protecting the external aesthetics of the door 4, a foam strip 37 can also be fitted or glued onto the parcel box.

[0097] Alternatively or additionally, the parcel box may be provided with adjustable brackets to cater for different sized letterboxes. Since some letterboxes have a flap and a brush, the bracket has to accommodate for such, for example a bracket could be designed to go through the brushes. Alternatively, a claw-type bracket may be designed to fit the back of the parcelbox on one end, with a stem passing over the bottom of the letterbox, to allow the flap to be shut as normal, whereas the other end abuts against the inside surface of the door. Both would be designed to have minimal restriction to the normal opening and closing of the letterbox.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment, the parcel box is provided with a slot, from which a conduit leads to the letterbox of a door on which the parcel box is mounted. The slot has on a proximal end an opening on the surface of the parcel box not in contact with the surface of the door, and on a distal end, another opening, cut-out or passageway, adjacent the letterbox, on the surface of the parcel box in contact with the door. This is important if it is desirable to a property occupant that their door’s letterbox remains available for delivery of post other than parcels.

[0099] The parcel box’s slot can be provided with a switch adapted to assume a locked and unlocked position, such that with the unlocked position the slot’s conduit is available for a postal worker to deliver mail directly into a property,

-20via the parcel box slot. However, if a parcel was delivered by a parcel courier, into the parcel box, the slot switch, or alternatively the parcel box lock mechanism, can be activated, or set to a “lock position”, such that it shuts access to the door’s letterbox. In such a setting, if a postal worker attends to the property after a courier has already deposited a parcel into the parcel box, and locked it, any letters can be safely deposited into the parcel box via the slot. Thus, the slot is adapted to isolate the door’s letterbox, enabling a postal worker to deliver letters directly into the parcel box.

[0100] The parcel box may be adapted to prevent access to a letter box of a door. In such an embodiment, the parcel box 1 covers the letterbox of a door preventing flammable liquids, fireworks, excreta or anything undesirable from being poured through the letterbox into the building at night time when occupants are sleeping. Additionally, such an adaptation will maintain privacy at night and protect the property from “hook & cane” thefts, or a thief peeping in to look for valuables on display. Looking at Figures 24, 25, 26 & 27, one way of achieving this is by cutting slots in the n-shaped bracket 29, to correspond with slots (40, Figures 26 & 27), with a set of screw threaded pins (39, figure 27) going through both sets of slots to fixedly hold the parcel box in position. Note that the slots act as a rail to raise and lower the parcel box in the direction denoted by A” depending on whether the property owner wants to cover the letterbox or leave it unobstructed. A different way of achieving this is by using the cover 6 (figure 28) of the parcel box, which is hinged to the body of the parcel box using a pin 45. In this embodiment the parcel box 1 is mounted onto the door with the cover 6 raised to obstruct the letterbox 5. This is achieved by using a slot 44, through which a screw threaded pin 43 that has a hand wheel is inserted to cooperate with a plate 46 (figure 29) in the inside of the property. The hand wheel can be operated to move the pin so that the cover is held tightly or loosely against the door, in either direction denoted by B”, so that the cover 6, blocks or unblocks the opening of the letterbox.

-21[0101] The parcel box may be provided by protective foam to protect the door from the contact with the parcel box. An added advantage may be to minimise draught, and to prevent the parcel box from rattling when the door is moved or because of the wind.

[0102] The parcel box may be provided with a digital media screen on a side of the parcel box, preferably on a frontal-facing side, such that passers-by can see the screen and any message displayed thereon.

[0103] In houses or flats with multiple occupancy, the parcel box’ mounting means may include a rail or mounting arrangement, that can be affixed or installed onto the outside of a door or a wall, and that allows multiple parcel boxes to be mounted on, or unmounted from.

[0104] As an alternative mounting feature, the mounting means of each parcel box may include a bracket (not shown) that at one end is flared (to stop it from being pulled out of a letterbox) and can be inserted through the letter box of a door from the inside, so that the parcel box can be mounted onto it, from the outside. Such a bracket would go through the letterbox from the inside of the property to the outside, and in position would rest on the bottom surface of the letterbox. At the other end of this bracket is formed at least one substantially flat member extending outwardly from the bracket with a hole through it. The member slots cooperatively with a slot cut out into the surface of the parcel box that is in contact with the door, such that a lock can then be inserted through the hole of the flat member, that hole now being inside the container of the parcel box, and the lock abutting against the internal surface of the parcel box, to secure the parcel box to a door.

[0105] Having described and illustrated the principles of the invention with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to a skilled man in the art that the invention can be modified in arrangement and detail without departing from such principles. Accordingly, in view of the many possible embodiments to which the principles may be put, it should be noted that the detailed embodiments are illustrative only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A parcel box comprising:

a container; and a mounting means for mounting the container to a structure, the mounting means comprising:

at least two fixing points, with at least one fixing point located generally towards the extremities of one section of the container that in use is in proximity to the structure;

access means in use for dropping a letter or a parcel into the container;

a lockable access opening for accessing parcels dropped into the container; and a storage space that can be used to store parcels;

wherein the mounting means in use enables fixed installation of the container to the structure, to prevent unauthorised access or prising of the container from the structure.

2. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the structure comprises a door or a wall.

3. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the access means is in communication with the storage space to provide a conduit by which a letter or a parcel can be securely deposited into the storage space.

4. A parcel box according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the access means has access lock means to prevent unauthorised access to the inside of the container.

5. A parcel box according to claim 4, wherein the access lock means comprises a coded lock that enables an authorised person possessing the lock to gain access to the storage space of the parcel box.

6. A parcel box according to claim 5, wherein the coded lock comprises an encrypted code communicated to an authorised user’s mobile phone, and which in use can be used to lock or unlock the parcel box.

7. A parcel box according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the access means comprises a coverable lid on the surface of the container.

8. A parcel box according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the access means comprises at least one hinged flap, movable in use to enable an item to be dropped into the container while preventing access to the contents of the storage space of the container.

9. A parcel box according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockable access opening comprises a lockable door that can be opened using key means and that is located on the section of the container which in use is in proximity to the door or wall.

10. A parcel box according to claim 9, wherein the lockable door provides access to the storage space of the container, when the container is unmounted from its fixing points on a door or wall.

11. A parcel box according to claim 9, wherein the lockable door provides access to the storage space of the container, when the container is mounted to a door or wall.

12. A parcel box according to claims 1, 3 and 8, wherein the storage space comprises a plurality of compartments in communication with the access means, each compartment capable of housing at least one parcel.

13. A parcel box according to claims 1, 3 and 8, wherein the storage space comprises a single compartment in communication with the access means, the compartment being adapted to house at least one parcel.

14. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the mounting means comprises a retractable fixing means disposable between a door and the section of the container that is in proximity to the door, and positionable within a letterbox of a door, the retractable fixing means being adapted to prevent unauthorised access or prising of the container from the door.

15. A parcel box according to claim 14, wherein the retractable fixing means is biased with spring means to apply a pull force on the container.

16. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the fixing points comprise lockable fixing means operable by an authorised person to release a container secured to a door or wall from within a property a door or wall of which the parcel box is affixed.

17. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the fixing points comprise lockable fixing means operable by an authorised person to release the container secured to a door or wall from outside of a property on whose door or wall the parcel box is affixed.

18. A parcel box according to claims 7 or 8, wherein the access means comprise a lid so biased to automatically lock the storage space of the container when an object is placed inside the storage space so as to prevent tampering with the contents of the parcel box.

19. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the storage space of the parcel box may be adapted to be accessible from the outside of the property.

20. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the container is provided with an alarm means adapted to detect motion of, or uncharacteristic interference against the parcel box.

21. A parcel box according to claim 20, wherein the alarm means comprises an audible alarm to provide a warning in the event of unauthorised attempted dislodgement of the parcel box or other interference against the parcel box.

22. A parcel box according to claim 20, wherein the alarm means comprises an alert message sent to the property’s occupant’s phone to provide a warning in the event of unauthorised attempted dislodgement of the parcel box or other interference against the parcel box.

23. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the container is provided with alert means to detect when an object has been placed inside the parcel box, so that it can alert a property’s occupant when an object has been placed inside the parcel box.

24. A parcel box according to claim 23, wherein the alert means comprises a buzzer.

25. A parcel box according to claim 23, wherein the alert means includes a mobile application, sensor network or transceiver means connected to the global world wide web or other communications network, and which are adapted to send signals to the property’s occupant upon the detection of an object within the parcel box.

26. A parcel box according to claim 23 and 25, wherein the alert means includes a microcomputer means capable of processing signals from or to a mobile application, sensor network or other communications network connected to the parcel box, and for communicating with the transceiver mean, the transceiver means being connected to a wired or wireless network using fixed line or at least one mobile phone.

27. A parcel box according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the parcel box is provided with camera means capable of capturing one or more photographic images of the contents of the storage space.

28. A parcel box according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the parcel box is provided with camera means capable of capturing one or more photographic images of the surrounding environment.

29. A parcel box according to claims 27 and 28, wherein the camera means can communicate with the microcomputer, so as to process any image captured and transmit the processed image to a remote location via the communications network using the transceiver means.

30. A parcel box according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the parcel box is provided with microphone means capable of capturing sounds waves and audible signals inside the parcel box, and of the surrounding environment.

31. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the parcel box when mounted onto a door covers the letterbox of a door to prevent direct access to the letter box of the door.

32. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the parcel box is provided with slot means, which are in communication with a doors letterbox when the parcel box is affixed to a door, to enable access to a letter box of a door.

33. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the parcel box is provided with quick release means mounting and unmounting onto a door or wall.

34. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the parcel box is provided with verification means to provide proof of delivery to a postal worker.

35. A parcel box according to claim 1, wherein the parcel box is provided with transformation means to enable it to be enlargeable or collapsible.