WO2022269288A1 - System, container and methods for receiving home deliveries - Google Patents

System, container and methods for receiving home deliveries Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022269288A1
WO2022269288A1 PCT/GB2022/051631 GB2022051631W WO2022269288A1 WO 2022269288 A1 WO2022269288 A1 WO 2022269288A1 GB 2022051631 W GB2022051631 W GB 2022051631W WO 2022269288 A1 WO2022269288 A1 WO 2022269288A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
delivery
user interface
doorbell
site
container
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2022/051631
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Rory Donnelly
Stuart Duncan
Original Assignee
Rory Donnelly
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Rory Donnelly filed Critical Rory Donnelly
Publication of WO2022269288A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022269288A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00896—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys specially adapted for particular uses
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00896—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys specially adapted for particular uses
    • G07C9/00912—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys specially adapted for particular uses for safes, strong-rooms, vaults or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/146—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means the receptacle comprising identification means, e.g. a bar code
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/147—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means the receptacle comprising heating or cooling means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/149—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means with central server link
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A47G
    • A47G2200/08—Illumination
    • A47G2200/085—Light sensor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A47G
    • A47G2200/16—Temperature
    • A47G2200/166—Temperature sensor
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00896—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys specially adapted for particular uses
    • G07C2009/0092—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys specially adapted for particular uses for cargo, freight or shipping containers and applications therefore in general

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to delivery services such as postal services and couriers.
  • the present disclosure is particularly applicable to larger deliveries such as packages and groceries. For example, deliveries may be received at homes or commercial locations.
  • the disclosure provides systems and containers for receiving deliveries in the absence of a recipient person.
  • Known delivery containers require a high degree of awareness of an on-site delivery person regarding where and how a delivery should be deposited in the event that a delivery recipient is unavailable to receive the delivery directly.
  • the delivery service may rely on communicating a PIN code to the on-site delivery person, and rely on the on-site delivery person successfully finding the delivery container.
  • the present disclosure provides a system for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries, the system comprising: a delivery container comprising: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; and a control module for obtaining a remote control instruction; and a doorbell system comprising a doorbell user interface for receiving input by an on-site delivery person, and a communication module, wherein the communication module is configured to perform a delivery attempt procedure and to send a remote control instruction to the delivery container in response to the input by an on-site delivery person.
  • system further comprises a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient.
  • the delivery attempt procedure comprises receiving a delivery request message from the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface and transmitting the delivery request message to the delivery recipient at the remote user interface.
  • the delivery attempt procedure comprises receiving a delivery instruction message from the delivery recipient at the remote user interface and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface.
  • the delivery container further comprises: a lockable closure for controlling access to the storage portion; and an electronic lock for locking and unlocking the lockable closure, wherein the control module is configured to control the electronic lock based on the remote control instruction.
  • the delivery attempt procedure comprises obtaining a delivery authorization message and sending a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, wherein: either the delivery authorization is obtained at the doorbell user interface; or the doorbell system further comprises a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient, and the delivery authorization message is obtained at the remote user interface.
  • the delivery container comprises: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; an alert module for attracting the attention of an on-site delivery person; and a control module for obtaining a remote control instruction and controlling the alert module based on the remote control instruction.
  • the alert module comprises a sounder or a visual indicator.
  • control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, control the alert module to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
  • the delivery container further comprises: a lockable closure for controlling access to the storage portion; and an electronic lock for locking and unlocking the lockable closure, wherein the control module is configured to control the electronic lock based on the remote control instruction.
  • control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, control the alert module to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
  • control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, control the alert module to communicate progress of the delivery request .
  • the storage portion comprises thermal insulation for preserving a temperature of the delivered item.
  • the present disclosure provides a first computer- implemented method for a doorbell system, the method comprising: receiving an input by an on-site delivery person at a doorbell user interface; and performing a delivery attempt procedure and sending a remote control instruction to a delivery container for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries in response to the input by an on-site delivery person.
  • the first method comprises: performing a set-up procedure to associate the delivery container with the doorbell user interface.
  • the first method comprises: receiving a delivery request message from the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface; and transmitting the delivery request message to a remote user interface.
  • the first method comprises: receiving a delivery instruction message from a remote user interface operated by a delivery recipient; and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface.
  • the first method comprises: obtaining a delivery authorization message; and sending a remote control instruction to the delivery container indicating that a lockable closure should be unlocked, wherein: either the delivery authorization is obtained at the doorbell user interface from the on-site delivery person; or the delivery authorization message is obtained from a remote user interface operated by a delivery recipient.
  • the first method is optionally combined with a second method, the second method comprising: receiving a delivery initiation message from the doorbell system; generating a notification indicating that a delivery attempt procedure is underway; obtaining a delivery authorization from a delivery recipient; and sending a delivery authorization message to the doorbell system in order to authorize unlocking the delivery container.
  • the delivery authorization message comprises a container identifier identifying a delivery container for receiving a home delivery or commercial delivery.
  • the second method comprises: performing a set-up procedure to associate the delivery container with the doorbell system.
  • the second method comprises: receiving a delivery request message from an on-site delivery person via the doorbell system.
  • the second method comprises: obtaining a delivery instruction message for an on-site delivery person from the delivery recipient; and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the doorbell system.
  • the methods according to the second aspect may be used in a system according to the first aspect.
  • Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a system for receiving home deliveries
  • Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a delivery container for receiving home deliveries
  • Fig. 3 schematically illustrates communication and events in a delivery attempt procedure
  • Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a doorbell system
  • Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a remote user interface of a system for receiving home deliveries.
  • Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a system for receiving home deliveries.
  • the system comprises a delivery container 1 and a doorbell system.
  • the doorbell system is preferably a smart doorbell system.
  • Smart doorbell systems typically comprise a doorbell user interface 21 and a backend 22 which may for example be implemented on a server, or implemented in a distributed cloud system.
  • the doorbell user interface 21 is connected to the backend 22 via a network 3.
  • the doorbell user interface 21 comprises at least an input, such as a button, for an on-site delivery person to “ring” the doorbell.
  • the doorbell user interface 21 may additionally have any of an electronic display for displaying a message, a keypad for receiving a text or numerical input, a speaker and/or microphone for audio communication, and a screen and/or camera for visual communication.
  • the doorbell system further comprises a communication module 23 configured to perform a delivery attempt procedure in response to input by the on-site delivery person.
  • the communication module 23 comprises an output configured to be connected to the delivery container 1 and configured to send a signal to the delivery container 1 when the doorbell is “rung”, similarly to how a doorbell conventionally triggers a ringer within a home.
  • the additional functionality of the system for receiving home deliveries is primarily implemented in the delivery container 1.
  • the communication module 23 may be a module implemented in the backend 22 of a smart doorbell, and may be configured to coordinate a communication protocol such as described below with reference to Fig. 3.
  • the communication module 23 could further be provided in a backend of the home delivery system that is separate from the backend 22 of the smart doorbell.
  • the network 3 may have any topology which may include one or more local networks and/or wide area networks, where such networks may be wired or wireless or a mixture of the two.
  • the network 3 may for example comprise one or more WiFi (Registered Trade Mark, RTM) or Bluetooth (RTM) connections connections, in addition to wired connections.
  • WiFi Registered Trade Mark
  • RTM Bluetooth
  • the delivery container 1 is communicably connected to the doorbell system.
  • the delivery container 1 may be connected to the doorbell system via the network 3, or may be directly connected to the doorbell user interface 21.
  • the system may additionally comprise a remote user interface 4.
  • the remote user interface may, for example, be implemented as an application (“app”) on a general purpose terminal such as a mobile device, tablet or computer, or may be implemented in dedicated hardware.
  • the remote user interface 4 may connect to the doorbell system and/or connect to the container 1 via the network 3.
  • Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a delivery container for receiving home deliveries.
  • the delivery container 1 comprises a storage portion 11 for storing a delivered item such as a package 1001 or groceries 1002.
  • the delivery container 1 may be generally hollow.
  • a closure 12 such as a lid is used by an on-site delivery person to access the storage portion 11.
  • the closure may alternatively take any form used in known package containers for postal and delivery services, such as a one-way deposit closure.
  • a separate closure (not shown) may be provided for access by the delivery recipient, or the delivery recipient may also use the closure 12 to retrieve the delivered item.
  • An inside of the closure 12 may display a code such as a bar code, a QR code and/or a copy of the written signature, which can be scanned by the on-site delivery person as proof of delivery.
  • the storage portion 11 may include thermal insulation 13 in order to preserve a temperature of the delivered item.
  • the thermal insulation 13 may be fixed or removable.
  • the thermal insulation 13 may comprise a temperature buffer such as ice or a chemical ice pack, which can be periodically replaced and/or recharged.
  • a portion of the thermal insulation 13 may be attached to the closure 12 in order to surround the delivered item.
  • the storage portion 11 may also comprise a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature ion the storage portion 11.
  • the temperature sensor may be a Bluetooth (RTM) temperature sensor configured to connect wirelessly to a control module 15.
  • the closure 12 may be lockable, and the delivery container 1 preferably includes a lock 14 for locking and unlocking the lockable closure.
  • the lock is preferably electronically controllable.
  • the delivery container additionally comprises a control module 15.
  • the control module may have a number of purposes, including communicating with a doorbell system via a wired or wireless connection, controlling the lock 14 to be in a locked or unlocked state, an controlling an alert module 16 (where present).
  • the optional alert module 16 is a module for attracting the attention of the on-site delivery person.
  • the alert module may comprise a sounder or a visual indicator.
  • the chance of an on-site delivery person locating the delivery container and making a successful delivery can be improved. Furthermore, including an alert module 16 means that it is possible to conceal the delivery container 1 visually, as may be desired for aesthetic reasons or security reasons, with the delivery container 1 being substantially less noticeable except when the alert module 16 is activated. In one example, the delivery container 1 may advantageously be designed to appear as and be used as a bench.
  • the alert module 16 may additionally be configured to provide information about a pending delivery attempt to the on-site delivery person. For example, the alert module 16 may be configured to provide a count-down of a suitable time for the on-site delivery person to wait, or may be configured to indicate a progress of attempting to contact a delivery recipient remotely.
  • the control module 15 may be configured to perform any of the following possible procedures.
  • control module 15 obtains a remote control instruction, which may come from a doorbell system, and controls the alert module 16 based on the remote control instruction.
  • the remote control instruction may indicate that a delivery request has been made (e.g. by an on-site delivery person “ringing” a doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system), or may indicate that the closure 12 should be unlocked.
  • control module 15 may respond by controlling the alert module 16 to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person, so that the on-site delivery person can identify that the delivery container 1 should be used to complete the delivery.
  • the control module 15 may control the alert module 16 to make repeated attempts to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
  • the delivery container 1 may be configured to detect the presence of the on-site delivery person in order to end the repeated attempts.
  • the control module 15 may control the alert module 16 to make a fixed number of attempts to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
  • the control module 15 may control the alert module 16 to communicate progress of the delivery request.
  • the alert module 16 may provide a count-down of a suitable time for the on-site delivery person to wait, or may be configured to indicate a progress of attempting to contact a delivery recipient remotely.
  • control module 15 obtains a remote control instruction, which may come from a doorbell system, and controls the lock 14 based on the remote control instruction.
  • control module 15 may control the lock 14 to unlock.
  • the control module 15 may check that the closure 12 has been properly closed after a delivery. For example, after unlocking the lock 14 the control module 15 may wait for a fixed period (e.g. 1 minute) and then detect whether the closure 12 is in a closed position and the lock 14 has engaged. A light sensor may be used to detect whether or not the closure 12 is in the closed position. If the closure 12 is not in the closed position, the control module 15 may use the alert module 16 to notify the on-site delivery person.
  • a fixed period e.g. 1 minute
  • the delivery container 1 may have a resilient system or a power driver to return the closure 12 to the closed position.
  • the control module 15 may further be configured to record a time stamp when the closure 12 is unlocked and or when the closure is re-locked following a delivery.
  • the control module 15 may further communicate the time stamp to the doorbell system or to a backend of the delivery system.
  • the time stamp(s) may be retained as a log for security and/or delivery tracking purposes.
  • the delivery container 1 may further comprise an unlock module 17 for locally unlocking the delivery container 1.
  • the unlock module 17 may be used by the delivery recipient when retrieving a delivered item.
  • the unlock module 17 may also provide an alternative way for the on-site delivery person to complete delivery.
  • the unlock module 17 may comprise an RFID sensor for use with a compatible card, fob or sticky tag.
  • the unlock module 17 may comprise a keypad for use with a PIN number.
  • the unlock module 17 may comprise a microphone and may trigger unlocking of the closure 12 in response to a voice command, for example implemented using Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant (all RTMs).
  • the unlock module 17 could additionally or alternatively comprise an NFC sensor for use with an NFC tag or a compatible smartphone or smartwatch.
  • the unlock module may comprise a camera or fingerprint sensor for unlocking based on facial recognition or a fingerprint.
  • the unlock module 17 also preferably comprises a physical unlock mechanism in case of power loss.
  • the temperature sensor, lock 14, control module 15, alert module 16, unlock module 17 and any other electronics of the delivery container 1 may be powered by a mains supply or by a portable power supply such as batteries.
  • the container is preferably fixed to a wall or to the ground.
  • Fig. 3 schematically illustrates communication and events in a delivery attempt procedure for a system comprising a smart doorbell system and a delivery container as described above.
  • an on-site delivery person provides an input at the doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system. This may, for example, comprise pressing a button to “ring” the doorbell.
  • the doorbell user interface 21 may respond by confirming that the input has been received, for example by ringing a sounder or bell.
  • a delivery request message is sent from the doorbell user interface 21 to the communication module 23 of the doorbell system, initiating the delivery attempt procedure.
  • the doorbell user interface 21 may activate a camera and/or microphone to monitor the on-site delivery person. Video and/or audio may be sent to the backend 22 of the doorbell system.
  • the communication module 23 may perform an authentication procedure for the doorbell user interface 21 in order to communicate securely, particularly when sending or receiving video and/or audio.
  • the communication module 23 sends the delivery container 1 a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made. This can be used to trigger the control module 15 and alert module 16 to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person towards the delivery container 1 , as described above, at step S304.
  • step S305 the communication module 23 transmits the delivery request message to a delivery recipient who is a user of the remote user interface 4.
  • the communication module 23 may perform an authentication procedure for the remote user interface 21 in order to communicate securely, particularly when sending or receiving video and/or audio.
  • the remote user interface 4 may generate an alert such as a push notification, or a ringtone. Alternatively, the remote user interface 4 may immediately provide video and/or audio from the doorbell user interface 21 , for example as a stream. The remote user interface 4 may provide a plurality of options for how the delivery recipient can respond to the delivery request message.
  • the delivery recipient provides a delivery instruction message.
  • the delivery instruction message may, for example, comprise information about where the delivery container 1 is located and/or information about how to access the storage portion 11 of the delivery container 1 such as a code for accessing the delivery container 1.
  • the delivery instruction message is relayed back to the doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system, via the communication module 23. Then, at step S309, the delivery instruction message is communicated to the on-site delivery person by the doorbell user interface 21.
  • delivery recipient may simply trigger the delivery system to generate a delivery instruction message.
  • the delivery instruction message may include a randomly generated code or the like for accessing the delivery container 1.
  • the randomly generated code may be generated by the remote user interface prior to step S307, may be generated by the communication module prior to step S308, or may be generated by the doorbell user interface after step S308.
  • the randomly generated code may at the same time be transmitted to the delivery container 15 to be confirmed against an entry at the unlock module 17 by the on-site delivery person.
  • the randomly generated code may be valid for a limited time, or may be a one-time code that is only valid once.
  • the on-site delivery person may immediately proceed to complete the delivery. Otherwise, the on-site delivery person can make use of the delivery instruction message while waiting for the delivery container 1 to unlock.
  • the delivery recipient may initiate continuous communication between the doorbell user interface 21 and the remote user interface 4, where the continuous communication is illustrated as step S310.
  • the continuous communication may include a two-way (or one-way) audio link such that the delivery recipient can speak to the on-site delivery person and/or vice versa.
  • the continuous communication may also include a one-way (or two-way) video link such that the delivery recipient can see or record the movements of the on-site delivery person.
  • the delivery recipient may authorize access to the delivery container 1 in order to complete the delivery.
  • a delivery authorization message is sent from the remote user interface 4 to the communication module 23 of the doorbell system.
  • the communication module 23 sends the delivery container 1 a remote control instruction indicating that the closure 12 should be unlocked.
  • the control module 15 unlocks the lock 14 to release the closure 12.
  • the control module may also control the alert module 16 to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person towards the delivery container 1.
  • the alert provided by the alert module 16 is also preferably loud and/or bright enough that it can be detected by the delivery recipient when a continuous communication (step S310) is underway.
  • the delivery recipient may use the continuous communication to monitor the on-site delivery person as they complete the delivery.
  • the delivery recipient may control more than one delivery container 1.
  • the delivery recipient may control a low-temperature delivery container 1 configured to keep delivered items cool and a general delivery container 1 configured to receive general packages.
  • the delivery authorization message of step S312A may comprise a container identifier identifying a delivery container 1 for receiving the home delivery.
  • the container identifier may be included even if the delivery recipient controls only one delivery container 1.
  • Each of the first to third possible responses may, for example, be offered as different buttons in an application on the remote user interface 4.
  • the application may only allow certain combinations, such as omitting the first possible response, and/or chaining the second and third responses such that the delivery recipient must initiate continuous communication before authorizing access to the delivery container 1.
  • the on-site delivery person may use the doorbell user interface 21 to similarly authorize access to the delivery container 1 in order to complete the delivery.
  • a delivery authorization message is sent from the doorbell user interface 21 to the communication module 23 of the doorbell system, and the communication module 23 sends the delivery container 1 a remote control instruction indicating that the closure 12 should be unlocked.
  • the on-site delivery person may authorize access by, for example, entering a code at the doorbell user interface 21.
  • the code may be entered using any suitable interface such as a keypad, a microphone (by reading or playing the code), or a camera (for example using a bar code or QR code).
  • the code may be a general code for accessing the delivery container, or may be a code identifying the delivery in order to obtain one-off access.
  • the doorbell system may connect to a system provided by a delivery company in order to verify that the order is genuine.
  • the procedure of steps S311 B, S312B, S313 and S314 could be implemented independently of the procedure of steps S301 to S312A, and implemented without requiring a remote user interface 4.
  • Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a doorbell system. The method may be performed by a combination of one or more of the parts of the above-described doorbell system.
  • a set-up procedure is performed to associate the delivery container 1 with the doorbell user interface 21.
  • the doorbell system may be configured to detect a delivery container 1 that is connected to the same local area network as the doorbell user interface 21.
  • the set-up procedure may comprise entering a pairing authorization, such as a code supplied with the delivery container 1 , in order to confirm that the user of the doorbell system is also authorized to use the delivery container 1.
  • the set-up procedure may also require entering a doorbell owner code at the doorbell user interface 21 , in order to further confirm that the current user is authorized to use the doorbell user interface 21 for such a set-up procedure.
  • step S402 an input by an on-site delivery person is received at a doorbell user interface. This initiates a procedure similarly to step S301 described above.
  • the method of Fig. 4 may continue similarly to Fig. 3, with step S302 and so on.
  • a remote control instruction is sent to the delivery container 1 , as described at step S303 or S313 above.
  • Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a remote user interface of a system for receiving home deliveries.
  • the set-up procedure is instead performed using the remote user interface.
  • a set-up procedure is performed at the remote user interface 4 to associate the delivery container with the doorbell system.
  • the doorbell system may be configured to detect a delivery container 1 that is connected to the same local area network as the doorbell user interface 21.
  • the set-up procedure may comprise entering a pairing authorization, such as a code supplied with the delivery container 1 , in order to confirm that the user of the doorbell system is also authorized to use the delivery container 1.
  • the set-up procedure may also require entering a doorbell owner code at the remote user interface 21 , in order to further confirm that the current user is authorized to use the remote user interface 21 for such a set-up procedure.
  • the remote user interface 4 receives a delivery initiation message from the doorbell system.
  • the delivery initiation message may be a delivery request message as previously described for step S305 of Fig. 3.
  • the remote user interface 4 generates a notification that a delivery attempt procedure is underway.
  • the remote user interface 4 may generate an alert such as a push notification, or a ringtone, to notify the delivery recipient that an on-site delivery person is waiting to complete a delivery.
  • step S504 the remote user interface 4 obtains a delivery authorization from a delivery recipient. This step may be similar to step S311Aof Fig. 3.
  • step S505 the remote user interface 4 sends a delivery authorization message to the doorbell system in order to authorize unlocking the delivery container.
  • This step may be similar to step S312Aof Fig. 3.
  • the backend 22 of the doorbell system (or a separate backend of the home delivery system) or the remote user interface 4 may be further configured to continuously monitor the temperature in the delivery container 1 using a temperature sensor of the storage portion 11 communicating via the control module 15.
  • the delivery recipient may for example receive a notification if the temperature leaves a required range indicating that any delivered items requiring cold storage should be retrieved as soon as possible, or the delivery recipient may be able to view the temperature at will via the remote user interface 4.
  • the communication module 23 may be configured to, in step S305 as described above, send the delivery request message to a plurality of remote user interfaces 4 (for example, up to 8 remote user interfaces 4). Any of the possible delivery recipients may thus authorize the delivery, increasing the chance of successful delivery.
  • the remote user interface 4 is used by a delivery recipient.
  • the remote user interface 4 may instead be used by the on-site delivery person.
  • a delivery company may be provided with a temporary access permission to unlock the delivery container 1 via the remote user interface 4.
  • the temporary access may, for example, be defined for a delivery window such as between 2pm and 5pm on a particular day.
  • the delivery recipient may have a first remote user interface 4 and may use the first remote user interface 4 to give a temporary access permission to a delivery company.
  • the on-site delivery person may then user a second remote user interface 4 which has obtained the temporary access permission in order to complete a delivery.
  • the delivery may be performed without using the doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system. Indeed the doorbell system may be omitted entirely, and the system may instead comprise the delivery container 1 , a backend, and the first and second remote user interfaces 4.
  • the above described containers are used in a delivery system comprising a doorbell system, variants of the above described container may be provided without a connection to a doorbell system.
  • the unlock module 17 may be provided as the sole way of unlocking the delivery container 1.

Abstract

A system for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries, the system comprising: a delivery container (1) comprising: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; and a control module for obtaining a remote control instruction; and a doorbell system (21) comprising a doorbell user interface for receiving input by an on- site delivery person, and a communication module (23), wherein the communication module (23) is configured to perform a delivery attempt procedure and to send a remote control instruction to the delivery container in response to the input by an on-site delivery person.

Description

SYSTEM, CONTAINER AND METHODS FOR RECEIVING HOME
DELIVERIES
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to delivery services such as postal services and couriers. The present disclosure is particularly applicable to larger deliveries such as packages and groceries. For example, deliveries may be received at homes or commercial locations. The disclosure provides systems and containers for receiving deliveries in the absence of a recipient person.
BACKGROUND
Known delivery containers require a high degree of awareness of an on-site delivery person regarding where and how a delivery should be deposited in the event that a delivery recipient is unavailable to receive the delivery directly.
For example, the delivery service may rely on communicating a PIN code to the on-site delivery person, and rely on the on-site delivery person successfully finding the delivery container.
In practice, there are often problems communicating such PIN codes, and problems finding the delivery container, and it is desirable to provide an alternative system which reduces the rate of delivery failures and the associated expense of repeated delivery attempts or refunds for lost deliveries.
SUMMARY
According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries, the system comprising: a delivery container comprising: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; and a control module for obtaining a remote control instruction; and a doorbell system comprising a doorbell user interface for receiving input by an on-site delivery person, and a communication module, wherein the communication module is configured to perform a delivery attempt procedure and to send a remote control instruction to the delivery container in response to the input by an on-site delivery person.
Optionally, the system further comprises a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient.
Optionally, the delivery attempt procedure comprises receiving a delivery request message from the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface and transmitting the delivery request message to the delivery recipient at the remote user interface.
Optionally, the delivery attempt procedure comprises receiving a delivery instruction message from the delivery recipient at the remote user interface and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface.
Optionally, the delivery container further comprises: a lockable closure for controlling access to the storage portion; and an electronic lock for locking and unlocking the lockable closure, wherein the control module is configured to control the electronic lock based on the remote control instruction.
Optionally, the delivery attempt procedure comprises obtaining a delivery authorization message and sending a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, wherein: either the delivery authorization is obtained at the doorbell user interface; or the doorbell system further comprises a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient, and the delivery authorization message is obtained at the remote user interface.
Optionally, the delivery container comprises: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; an alert module for attracting the attention of an on-site delivery person; and a control module for obtaining a remote control instruction and controlling the alert module based on the remote control instruction. Optionally, the alert module comprises a sounder or a visual indicator.
Optionally, the control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, control the alert module to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
Optionally, the delivery container further comprises: a lockable closure for controlling access to the storage portion; and an electronic lock for locking and unlocking the lockable closure, wherein the control module is configured to control the electronic lock based on the remote control instruction.
Optionally, the control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, control the alert module to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
Optionally, the control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, control the alert module to communicate progress of the delivery request . Optionally, the storage portion comprises thermal insulation for preserving a temperature of the delivered item.
According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a first computer- implemented method for a doorbell system, the method comprising: receiving an input by an on-site delivery person at a doorbell user interface; and performing a delivery attempt procedure and sending a remote control instruction to a delivery container for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries in response to the input by an on-site delivery person.
Optionally, the first method comprises: performing a set-up procedure to associate the delivery container with the doorbell user interface.
Optionally, the first method comprises: receiving a delivery request message from the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface; and transmitting the delivery request message to a remote user interface.
Optionally, the first method comprises: receiving a delivery instruction message from a remote user interface operated by a delivery recipient; and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface.
Optionally, the first method comprises: obtaining a delivery authorization message; and sending a remote control instruction to the delivery container indicating that a lockable closure should be unlocked, wherein: either the delivery authorization is obtained at the doorbell user interface from the on-site delivery person; or the delivery authorization message is obtained from a remote user interface operated by a delivery recipient.
The first method is optionally combined with a second method, the second method comprising: receiving a delivery initiation message from the doorbell system; generating a notification indicating that a delivery attempt procedure is underway; obtaining a delivery authorization from a delivery recipient; and sending a delivery authorization message to the doorbell system in order to authorize unlocking the delivery container.
Optionally in the second method, the delivery authorization message comprises a container identifier identifying a delivery container for receiving a home delivery or commercial delivery. Optionally, the second method comprises: performing a set-up procedure to associate the delivery container with the doorbell system.
Optionally, the second method comprises: receiving a delivery request message from an on-site delivery person via the doorbell system.
Optionally, the second method comprises: obtaining a delivery instruction message for an on-site delivery person from the delivery recipient; and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the doorbell system. The methods according to the second aspect may be used in a system according to the first aspect.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a system for receiving home deliveries; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a delivery container for receiving home deliveries;
Fig. 3 schematically illustrates communication and events in a delivery attempt procedure;
Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a doorbell system;
Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a remote user interface of a system for receiving home deliveries.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a system for receiving home deliveries.
The system comprises a delivery container 1 and a doorbell system.
The doorbell system is preferably a smart doorbell system. Smart doorbell systems typically comprise a doorbell user interface 21 and a backend 22 which may for example be implemented on a server, or implemented in a distributed cloud system. The doorbell user interface 21 is connected to the backend 22 via a network 3.
The doorbell user interface 21 comprises at least an input, such as a button, for an on-site delivery person to “ring” the doorbell. The doorbell user interface 21 may additionally have any of an electronic display for displaying a message, a keypad for receiving a text or numerical input, a speaker and/or microphone for audio communication, and a screen and/or camera for visual communication.
For reference, one example of such a smart doorbell system is described in US 9179109 B1.
In order to adapt an existing doorbell system for use in the described system for receiving home deliveries, the doorbell system further comprises a communication module 23 configured to perform a delivery attempt procedure in response to input by the on-site delivery person.
In the simplest case, the communication module 23 comprises an output configured to be connected to the delivery container 1 and configured to send a signal to the delivery container 1 when the doorbell is “rung”, similarly to how a doorbell conventionally triggers a ringer within a home. In that case, the additional functionality of the system for receiving home deliveries is primarily implemented in the delivery container 1.
In another case, the communication module 23 may be a module implemented in the backend 22 of a smart doorbell, and may be configured to coordinate a communication protocol such as described below with reference to Fig. 3. The communication module 23 could further be provided in a backend of the home delivery system that is separate from the backend 22 of the smart doorbell.
The network 3 may have any topology which may include one or more local networks and/or wide area networks, where such networks may be wired or wireless or a mixture of the two. The network 3 may for example comprise one or more WiFi (Registered Trade Mark, RTM) or Bluetooth (RTM) connections connections, in addition to wired connections.
The delivery container 1 is communicably connected to the doorbell system. For example, the delivery container 1 may be connected to the doorbell system via the network 3, or may be directly connected to the doorbell user interface 21.
The system may additionally comprise a remote user interface 4. The remote user interface may, for example, be implemented as an application (“app”) on a general purpose terminal such as a mobile device, tablet or computer, or may be implemented in dedicated hardware. The remote user interface 4 may connect to the doorbell system and/or connect to the container 1 via the network 3.
Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a block diagram of a delivery container for receiving home deliveries. As shown in Fig. 2, the delivery container 1 comprises a storage portion 11 for storing a delivered item such as a package 1001 or groceries 1002. For example, the delivery container 1 may be generally hollow.
A closure 12 such as a lid is used by an on-site delivery person to access the storage portion 11. The closure may alternatively take any form used in known package containers for postal and delivery services, such as a one-way deposit closure. A separate closure (not shown) may be provided for access by the delivery recipient, or the delivery recipient may also use the closure 12 to retrieve the delivered item.
An inside of the closure 12 may display a code such as a bar code, a QR code and/or a copy of the written signature, which can be scanned by the on-site delivery person as proof of delivery.
The storage portion 11 may include thermal insulation 13 in order to preserve a temperature of the delivered item. For example, in the case of groceries 1002, it may be advantageous to maintain a lower-than-ambient temperature in the storage portion 11. The thermal insulation 13 may be fixed or removable. For example, the thermal insulation 13 may comprise a temperature buffer such as ice or a chemical ice pack, which can be periodically replaced and/or recharged. A portion of the thermal insulation 13 may be attached to the closure 12 in order to surround the delivered item.
The storage portion 11 may also comprise a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature ion the storage portion 11. For example, the temperature sensor may be a Bluetooth (RTM) temperature sensor configured to connect wirelessly to a control module 15.
The closure 12 may be lockable, and the delivery container 1 preferably includes a lock 14 for locking and unlocking the lockable closure. The lock is preferably electronically controllable.
The delivery container additionally comprises a control module 15. The control module may have a number of purposes, including communicating with a doorbell system via a wired or wireless connection, controlling the lock 14 to be in a locked or unlocked state, an controlling an alert module 16 (where present).
The optional alert module 16 is a module for attracting the attention of the on-site delivery person. For example, the alert module may comprise a sounder or a visual indicator.
By including an alert module 16, the chance of an on-site delivery person locating the delivery container and making a successful delivery can be improved. Furthermore, including an alert module 16 means that it is possible to conceal the delivery container 1 visually, as may be desired for aesthetic reasons or security reasons, with the delivery container 1 being substantially less noticeable except when the alert module 16 is activated. In one example, the delivery container 1 may advantageously be designed to appear as and be used as a bench.
The alert module 16 may additionally be configured to provide information about a pending delivery attempt to the on-site delivery person. For example, the alert module 16 may be configured to provide a count-down of a suitable time for the on-site delivery person to wait, or may be configured to indicate a progress of attempting to contact a delivery recipient remotely.
The control module 15 may be configured to perform any of the following possible procedures.
In a first procedure, the control module 15 obtains a remote control instruction, which may come from a doorbell system, and controls the alert module 16 based on the remote control instruction.
For example, the remote control instruction may indicate that a delivery request has been made (e.g. by an on-site delivery person “ringing” a doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system), or may indicate that the closure 12 should be unlocked.
For either of these remote control instructions, the control module 15 may respond by controlling the alert module 16 to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person, so that the on-site delivery person can identify that the delivery container 1 should be used to complete the delivery.
The control module 15 may control the alert module 16 to make repeated attempts to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person. In one case, the delivery container 1 may be configured to detect the presence of the on-site delivery person in order to end the repeated attempts. Alternatively, the control module 15 may control the alert module 16 to make a fixed number of attempts to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
Additionally, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, the control module 15 may control the alert module 16 to communicate progress of the delivery request. For example, as mentioned above, the alert module 16 may provide a count-down of a suitable time for the on-site delivery person to wait, or may be configured to indicate a progress of attempting to contact a delivery recipient remotely.
In a second procedure, the control module 15 obtains a remote control instruction, which may come from a doorbell system, and controls the lock 14 based on the remote control instruction.
For example, in the case where the remote control instruction indicates that the closure 12 should be unlocked, the control module 15 may control the lock 14 to unlock.
In a third procedure, the control module 15 may check that the closure 12 has been properly closed after a delivery. For example, after unlocking the lock 14 the control module 15 may wait for a fixed period (e.g. 1 minute) and then detect whether the closure 12 is in a closed position and the lock 14 has engaged. A light sensor may be used to detect whether or not the closure 12 is in the closed position. If the closure 12 is not in the closed position, the control module 15 may use the alert module 16 to notify the on-site delivery person.
Additionally or alternatively, the delivery container 1 may have a resilient system or a power driver to return the closure 12 to the closed position. The control module 15 may further be configured to record a time stamp when the closure 12 is unlocked and or when the closure is re-locked following a delivery. The control module 15 may further communicate the time stamp to the doorbell system or to a backend of the delivery system. The time stamp(s) may be retained as a log for security and/or delivery tracking purposes.
The delivery container 1 may further comprise an unlock module 17 for locally unlocking the delivery container 1. For example the unlock module 17 may be used by the delivery recipient when retrieving a delivered item. The unlock module 17 may also provide an alternative way for the on-site delivery person to complete delivery. For example, the unlock module 17 may comprise an RFID sensor for use with a compatible card, fob or sticky tag. As another example, the unlock module 17 may comprise a keypad for use with a PIN number. As another example, the unlock module 17 may comprise a microphone and may trigger unlocking of the closure 12 in response to a voice command, for example implemented using Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant (all RTMs). The unlock module 17 could additionally or alternatively comprise an NFC sensor for use with an NFC tag or a compatible smartphone or smartwatch. As a further example, the unlock module may comprise a camera or fingerprint sensor for unlocking based on facial recognition or a fingerprint. The unlock module 17 also preferably comprises a physical unlock mechanism in case of power loss.
The temperature sensor, lock 14, control module 15, alert module 16, unlock module 17 and any other electronics of the delivery container 1 may be powered by a mains supply or by a portable power supply such as batteries.
In order to secure the delivery container 1 , the container is preferably fixed to a wall or to the ground.
Fig. 3 schematically illustrates communication and events in a delivery attempt procedure for a system comprising a smart doorbell system and a delivery container as described above.
Referring to Fig. 3, at step S301 , an on-site delivery person provides an input at the doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system. This may, for example, comprise pressing a button to “ring” the doorbell. The doorbell user interface 21 may respond by confirming that the input has been received, for example by ringing a sounder or bell.
At step S302, a delivery request message is sent from the doorbell user interface 21 to the communication module 23 of the doorbell system, initiating the delivery attempt procedure.
Optionally, before, after or simultaneously with step S302, the doorbell user interface 21 may activate a camera and/or microphone to monitor the on-site delivery person. Video and/or audio may be sent to the backend 22 of the doorbell system.
Optionally, the communication module 23 may perform an authentication procedure for the doorbell user interface 21 in order to communicate securely, particularly when sending or receiving video and/or audio.
Optionally, at step S303, the communication module 23 sends the delivery container 1 a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made. This can be used to trigger the control module 15 and alert module 16 to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person towards the delivery container 1 , as described above, at step S304.
Whether or not steps S303 and S304 are performed, at step S305 the communication module 23 transmits the delivery request message to a delivery recipient who is a user of the remote user interface 4.
Optionally, the communication module 23 may perform an authentication procedure for the remote user interface 21 in order to communicate securely, particularly when sending or receiving video and/or audio.
In order to notify the delivery recipient that the on-site delivery person is waiting to complete a delivery, the remote user interface 4 may generate an alert such as a push notification, or a ringtone. Alternatively, the remote user interface 4 may immediately provide video and/or audio from the doorbell user interface 21 , for example as a stream. The remote user interface 4 may provide a plurality of options for how the delivery recipient can respond to the delivery request message.
In a first possible response, at step S306A, the delivery recipient provides a delivery instruction message. The delivery instruction message may, for example, comprise information about where the delivery container 1 is located and/or information about how to access the storage portion 11 of the delivery container 1 such as a code for accessing the delivery container 1.
Following the first possible response, at steps S307 and S308, the delivery instruction message is relayed back to the doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system, via the communication module 23. Then, at step S309, the delivery instruction message is communicated to the on-site delivery person by the doorbell user interface 21.
In another example, delivery recipient may simply trigger the delivery system to generate a delivery instruction message. For example, the delivery instruction message may include a randomly generated code or the like for accessing the delivery container 1. The randomly generated code may be generated by the remote user interface prior to step S307, may be generated by the communication module prior to step S308, or may be generated by the doorbell user interface after step S308. The randomly generated code may at the same time be transmitted to the delivery container 15 to be confirmed against an entry at the unlock module 17 by the on-site delivery person. The randomly generated code may be valid for a limited time, or may be a one-time code that is only valid once.
If the delivery instruction message included a code or the like for accessing the delivery container 1 , then the on-site delivery person may immediately proceed to complete the delivery. Otherwise, the on-site delivery person can make use of the delivery instruction message while waiting for the delivery container 1 to unlock.
In a second possible response, at step S306B, the delivery recipient may initiate continuous communication between the doorbell user interface 21 and the remote user interface 4, where the continuous communication is illustrated as step S310. The continuous communication may include a two-way (or one-way) audio link such that the delivery recipient can speak to the on-site delivery person and/or vice versa. The continuous communication may also include a one-way (or two-way) video link such that the delivery recipient can see or record the movements of the on-site delivery person.
In a third possible response, at step S311A, the delivery recipient may authorize access to the delivery container 1 in order to complete the delivery. In this case, at step S312A, a delivery authorization message is sent from the remote user interface 4 to the communication module 23 of the doorbell system.
The, at step S313, the communication module 23 sends the delivery container 1 a remote control instruction indicating that the closure 12 should be unlocked. At step S314, the control module 15 unlocks the lock 14 to release the closure 12. At step S314, the control module may also control the alert module 16 to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person towards the delivery container 1. The alert provided by the alert module 16 is also preferably loud and/or bright enough that it can be detected by the delivery recipient when a continuous communication (step S310) is underway. The delivery recipient may use the continuous communication to monitor the on-site delivery person as they complete the delivery.
In some cases, the delivery recipient may control more than one delivery container 1. For example, the delivery recipient may control a low-temperature delivery container 1 configured to keep delivered items cool and a general delivery container 1 configured to receive general packages. In such cases, the delivery authorization message of step S312A may comprise a container identifier identifying a delivery container 1 for receiving the home delivery. In a generalized design, the container identifier may be included even if the delivery recipient controls only one delivery container 1.
Each of the first to third possible responses may, for example, be offered as different buttons in an application on the remote user interface 4. In some cases, the application may only allow certain combinations, such as omitting the first possible response, and/or chaining the second and third responses such that the delivery recipient must initiate continuous communication before authorizing access to the delivery container 1.
In an alternative example where the remote user interface 4 is omitted or the delivery recipient is unresponsive, at step S311 B, the on-site delivery person may use the doorbell user interface 21 to similarly authorize access to the delivery container 1 in order to complete the delivery. In this case, at step S312B, a delivery authorization message is sent from the doorbell user interface 21 to the communication module 23 of the doorbell system, and the communication module 23 sends the delivery container 1 a remote control instruction indicating that the closure 12 should be unlocked. The on-site delivery person may authorize access by, for example, entering a code at the doorbell user interface 21. The code may be entered using any suitable interface such as a keypad, a microphone (by reading or playing the code), or a camera (for example using a bar code or QR code). The code may be a general code for accessing the delivery container, or may be a code identifying the delivery in order to obtain one-off access. For example, the doorbell system may connect to a system provided by a delivery company in order to verify that the order is genuine. The procedure of steps S311 B, S312B, S313 and S314 could be implemented independently of the procedure of steps S301 to S312A, and implemented without requiring a remote user interface 4.
Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a doorbell system. The method may be performed by a combination of one or more of the parts of the above-described doorbell system.
Referring to Fig. 4, at step S401 , a set-up procedure is performed to associate the delivery container 1 with the doorbell user interface 21. For example, the doorbell system may be configured to detect a delivery container 1 that is connected to the same local area network as the doorbell user interface 21. The set-up procedure may comprise entering a pairing authorization, such as a code supplied with the delivery container 1 , in order to confirm that the user of the doorbell system is also authorized to use the delivery container 1. The set-up procedure may also require entering a doorbell owner code at the doorbell user interface 21 , in order to further confirm that the current user is authorized to use the doorbell user interface 21 for such a set-up procedure.
Then, at step S402, an input by an on-site delivery person is received at a doorbell user interface. This initiates a procedure similarly to step S301 described above. The method of Fig. 4 may continue similarly to Fig. 3, with step S302 and so on.
Then, at step S403, a remote control instruction is sent to the delivery container 1 , as described at step S303 or S313 above.
Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer-implemented method for a remote user interface of a system for receiving home deliveries. In the example of Fig. 5, contrary to Fig. 4, the set-up procedure is instead performed using the remote user interface.
More specifically, at step S501 , a set-up procedure is performed at the remote user interface 4 to associate the delivery container with the doorbell system. For example, the doorbell system may be configured to detect a delivery container 1 that is connected to the same local area network as the doorbell user interface 21. The set-up procedure may comprise entering a pairing authorization, such as a code supplied with the delivery container 1 , in order to confirm that the user of the doorbell system is also authorized to use the delivery container 1. The set-up procedure may also require entering a doorbell owner code at the remote user interface 21 , in order to further confirm that the current user is authorized to use the remote user interface 21 for such a set-up procedure.
At step S502, the remote user interface 4 receives a delivery initiation message from the doorbell system. The delivery initiation message may be a delivery request message as previously described for step S305 of Fig. 3.
At step S503, the remote user interface 4 generates a notification that a delivery attempt procedure is underway. For example, the remote user interface 4 may generate an alert such as a push notification, or a ringtone, to notify the delivery recipient that an on-site delivery person is waiting to complete a delivery.
At step S504, the remote user interface 4 obtains a delivery authorization from a delivery recipient. This step may be similar to step S311Aof Fig. 3.
At step S505, the remote user interface 4 sends a delivery authorization message to the doorbell system in order to authorize unlocking the delivery container. This step may be similar to step S312Aof Fig. 3.
In addition to the procedures described above, the backend 22 of the doorbell system (or a separate backend of the home delivery system) or the remote user interface 4 may be further configured to continuously monitor the temperature in the delivery container 1 using a temperature sensor of the storage portion 11 communicating via the control module 15. The delivery recipient may for example receive a notification if the temperature leaves a required range indicating that any delivered items requiring cold storage should be retrieved as soon as possible, or the delivery recipient may be able to view the temperature at will via the remote user interface 4.
While the above described systems containers and methods are described in the context of home deliveries, the described technologies may equally be used in other contexts such as commercial deliveries or for internally tracked distribution of goods.
In the above described systems, there is at most one remote user interface 4 used by a single delivery recipient. However, in some embodiments there may be multiple possible delivery recipients each having a respective remote user interface 4. For example, the communication module 23 may be configured to, in step S305 as described above, send the delivery request message to a plurality of remote user interfaces 4 (for example, up to 8 remote user interfaces 4). Any of the possible delivery recipients may thus authorize the delivery, increasing the chance of successful delivery. In the above described systems, the remote user interface 4 is used by a delivery recipient. However, the remote user interface 4 may instead be used by the on-site delivery person. For example, a delivery company may be provided with a temporary access permission to unlock the delivery container 1 via the remote user interface 4. The temporary access may, for example, be defined for a delivery window such as between 2pm and 5pm on a particular day. The delivery recipient may have a first remote user interface 4 and may use the first remote user interface 4 to give a temporary access permission to a delivery company. The on-site delivery person may then user a second remote user interface 4 which has obtained the temporary access permission in order to complete a delivery. In such an alternative, the delivery may be performed without using the doorbell user interface 21 of the doorbell system. Indeed the doorbell system may be omitted entirely, and the system may instead comprise the delivery container 1 , a backend, and the first and second remote user interfaces 4.
While the above described containers are used in a delivery system comprising a doorbell system, variants of the above described container may be provided without a connection to a doorbell system. For example, the unlock module 17 may be provided as the sole way of unlocking the delivery container 1.

Claims

1. A system for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries, the system comprising: a delivery container comprising: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; and a control module for obtaining a remote control instruction; and a doorbell system comprising a doorbell user interface for receiving input by an on-site delivery person, and a communication module, wherein the communication module is configured to perform a delivery attempt procedure and to send remote control instructions to the delivery container in response to the input by an on-site delivery person, the delivery container further comprising: an alert module for attracting the attention of an on-site delivery person, wherein the control module is configured to control the alert module based on a first remote control instruction; a lockable closure for controlling access to the storage portion; and an electronic lock for locking and unlocking the lockable closure, wherein the control module is configured to control the electronic lock based on a second remote control instruction, wherein the delivery attempt procedure comprises obtaining a delivery authorization message and sending a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, wherein: either the delivery authorization message is obtained at the doorbell user interface; or the doorbell system further comprises a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient, and the delivery authorization message is obtained at the remote user interface.
2. A system according to claim 1 , further comprising a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient.
3. A system according to claim 2, wherein the delivery attempt procedure comprises receiving a delivery request message from the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface and transmitting the delivery request message to the delivery recipient at the remote user interface.
4. A system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the delivery attempt procedure comprises receiving a delivery instruction message from the delivery recipient at the remote user interface and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface.
5. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the alert module comprises a sounder or a visual indicator.
6. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, control the alert module to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
7. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, control the alert module to attract the attention of the on-site delivery person.
8. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control module is configured to, after obtaining a remote control instruction indicating that a delivery request has been made, control the alert module to communicate progress of the delivery request.
9. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the storage portion comprises thermal insulation for preserving a temperature of the delivered item.
10. A computer-implemented method for a system for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries, the method comprising: receiving, by a doorbell system, an input by an on-site delivery person at a doorbell user interface; and performing, by the doorbell system, a delivery attempt procedure and sending remote control instructions to a delivery container for receiving home deliveries or commercial deliveries in response to the input by the on-site delivery person, wherein the delivery container comprises: a storage portion for storing a delivered item; a control module for obtaining the remote control instructions; an alert module for attracting the attention of an on-site delivery person; a lockable closure for controlling access to the storage portion; and an electronic lock for locking and unlocking the lockable closure, wherein the method further comprises: controlling, by the control module, the alert module based on a first remote control instruction; and controlling, by the control module, the electronic lock based on a second remote control instruction, wherein the delivery attempt procedure comprises obtaining a delivery authorization message and sending a remote control instruction indicating that the lockable closure should be unlocked, wherein: either the delivery authorization message is obtained at the doorbell user interface; or the doorbell system further comprises a remote user interface for receiving input by a delivery recipient, and the delivery authorization message is obtained at the remote user interface.
11. A method according to claim 10, further comprising: performing a set-up procedure to associate the delivery container with the doorbell user interface.
12. A method according to claim 10 or claim 11 , further comprising: receiving a delivery request message from the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface; and transmitting the delivery request message to a remote user interface.
13. A method according to any of claims 10 to 12, comprising: receiving a delivery instruction message from a remote user interface operated by a delivery recipient; and transmitting the delivery instruction message to the on-site delivery person at the doorbell user interface.
14. A method according to any of claims 10 to 13, further comprising: a remote user interface receiving a delivery initiation message from the doorbell system; the remote user interface generating a notification indicating that a delivery attempt procedure is underway; the remote user interface obtaining a delivery authorization from a delivery recipient; and the remote user interface sending a delivery authorization message to the doorbell system in order to authorize unlocking the delivery container.
15. A method according to claim 14, wherein the delivery authorization message comprises a container identifier identifying a delivery container for receiving a home delivery or commercial delivery.
16. A method according to claim 14 or claim 15, further comprising: the remote user interface performing a set-up procedure to associate the delivery container with the doorbell system.
17. A method according to any of claims 14 to 16, further comprising: the remote user interface receiving a delivery request message from an on-site delivery person via the doorbell system.
18. A method according to any of claims 14 to 17, comprising: the remote user interface obtaining a delivery instruction message for an on-site delivery person from the delivery recipient; and the remote user interface transmitting the delivery instruction message to the doorbell system.
PCT/GB2022/051631 2021-06-25 2022-06-24 System, container and methods for receiving home deliveries WO2022269288A1 (en)

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