DroneDek: a "smart" mailbox that can accept drone deliveries autonomously

While there are many questions about the logistics of drone delivery technology, there is one that not everyone thinks about: what if nobody is home when the drone arrives? Fortunately, the DroneDek system is designed with this scenario in mind.

DroneDek, currently being developed by the Indianapolis-based startup of the same name, centers on a large "smart" mailbox that can be securely anchored on the lawn near the user's home. It will be part of a larger system in which customers use a dedicated app to order products from companies that use this technology.

When a delivery drone approaches the customer's home, it detects the precise GPS coordinates transmitted by the DroneDek box itself. Upon reaching this location, the hovering device sends an encrypted security code to the box, which in response opens its motorized top-loading door.

The drone then lowers the package into the box using an extendable cable. Once the package is in place and the safety cable is out of the way, the loading door closes and locks. And while the drone could simply turn around and fly back to its base, it can also land on the box to recharge its battery wirelessly if needed.

Meanwhile, the DroneDek box scans the barcode or QR code on the package to identify the order. It then contacts the user to notify them that the order has arrived. If desired, the person can actually take a look at the package using an internet-connected camera and the light inside the box.

In addition, if the package contains something that needs to be kept warm (such as food) or cold (such as medicine), the DroneDek box will do so automatically until the item is picked up. 

Going a step further, the company's plans also include having the box scan packages for traces of explosives or biological hazards, alert the user, and even call emergency services if any are detected. It also sterilizes packages, killing any viruses or bacteria on their surfaces.

After making sure that no one has sent it a bomb or anthrax spores, the user can then remove their package from the box through the door at the back. This door will open only via a built-in biometric scanner, a digital keypad, or a code sent through the app.

The DroneDek box can also serve as a regular mailbox for letters or small parcels, placed through the front slot. Conventional ground couriers can additionally place packages in it, similar to how drones do. The system will be available for purchase and use starting in 2022, but its price has not yet been disclosed.

"The DroneDek smart mailbox is the first patent for a useful technology designed to receive and store packages delivered by drones. It is intended for receiving or sending food, medicine, groceries, or parcels. It is a secure box for a porch, roof, window, house, or building," the company said. 

The startup's idea is that one day all of our purchases will be delivered by drones. A drone could be an aircraft, a self-driving vehicle, or a robot. But they will all have one thing in common: an endpoint called DroneDek. 

Mailboxes have not changed since 1858, when they first appeared. While phones, cars, air travel, and all the other conveniences of our daily lives have been updated, mailboxes have remained the same. DroneDek has decided to bring the mailbox into the 21st century with all the modern conveniences users expect and enjoy. 

While drone delivery will increase efficiency, reduce costs, and boost convenience and speed, it solves only half of the equation. To complete the last-mile delivery solution, you need a secure, reliable, weatherproof container that can hold your items and notify you of their delivery. This is where DroneDek comes in, completing the "last mile" with its smart mailbox.

DroneDek features:

• sensor technology that can detect explosives and biological hazards and report threats to emergency services, lock out DroneDek, and notify the user
• a floodlight activated by a motion detector for enhanced area security
• a heated door for operation in any climate
• a means of preserving and securely storing delivered goods inside the drone docking station
• a letter slot for depositing mail
• a solar panel mounted on the drone docking station
• a range of other power sources, including a 110 V mains connection, onboard battery power, and/or wind energy
• autonomous battery replacement service / smart grid
• a motorized sliding door
• a windproof unit

It is worth noting that DroneDek can transmit GPS information, has information on charging status, takeoff status, or delivery status, has communication means between the drone and its docking station, and can determine the location of the drone docking station so that the drone can approach and dock precisely. 

"All the benefits gained from efficient, eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fast delivery by unmanned aerial vehicle, robot, or autonomous vehicle are lost when the endpoint is a yard, building entrance, or driveway. To truly realize all the advantages of drone delivery, DroneDek must be the endpoint," the company said.