Patent Publication Number: US-10786104-B1

Title: Package protecting doormat frame having concealed security tarp

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a package securing doormat frame having a concealed security tarp. The package securing doormat frame comprises a frame for receiving at least one of a mat. A security tarp is stored in a recessed chamber within the frame. When a package is placed on the mat it is secured by repositioning the security rail which extends the security tarp over the package. The package securing doormat frame can be a web-enabled, Internet of things device. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Before our invention, with the growth of e-commerce, more and more people are purchasing products online and having them shipped to their destination address of choice. Often these destination addresses are their home where at the time of delivery a recipient might not be present. As such, when a recipient is not home often the delivery company will just leave the package unattended outside the recipient&#39;s house. 
     In a sign of our times, such unattended packages are appealing to thieves. In fact, porch-pirating, as it is often called, is the practice of thieves who steal unattended packages. This problem has reached an epidemic level generating a multi-billion US dollar annual loss to businesses and consumers. In fact, 2017 package theft statistics suggested that 31% of us have experienced a package theft and that there are 17 reported incidents per 1,000 people in metro areas. In addition, the average stolen package value is now $140 and the police make arrests in less than 10% of reported theft cases. 
     When the package is delivered and then pirated, the recipient may have little recourse. They can try to seek a replacement or refund from the company they bought the product from or they can try to seek a remedy from the delivery company. However absent some kind of fault and if records indicate the package was delivered, the companies involved will often just deny the recipient&#39;s claim. Once the claim is denied it can be a total loss for the recipient, no product in hand and out the money spent on the product and shipping as well. 
     The present invention addresses this and other shortcomings by providing a way to secure delivered unattended packages from rascal porch-bandits. For these reasons and shortcomings as well as other reasons and shortcomings there is a long felt need that gives rise to the present invention. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a package securing doormat frame having concealed security tarp. The package securing doormat frame comprising a frame which defines an interior region for receiving at least one of a mat, the frame having a recessed chamber along at least a portion of the frame perimeter. Continuing, a securing rail is operationally related to the frame and repositionable, the securing rail in an open position is located proximate the recessed chamber. A security tarp having at least a portion secured to the frame and at least a portion secured by the security rail. The security tarp is stored in the recessed chamber. When at least one of a package is placed on the mat the package is secured by repositioning the security rail from the open position to a closed position. The closed position extending the security tarp over the package, securing the package between the interior of the security tarp and the interior region of the frame. 
     Additional shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having a concealed security tarp. The method comprising the step of placing a package securing doormat frame at a package receiving location. The package securing doormat frame comprising a frame, a security rail, and a security tarp. The frame defines an interior region for receiving at least one of a mat. The frame having a recessed chamber along at least portion of the frame perimeter. The securing rail is operationally related to the frame and repositionable. The securing rail in an open position is located proximate the recessed chamber. 
     Continuing, are the steps of allowing a package delivery person to place at least one of a package on the mat and securing the package by repositioning the security rail from the open position to a closed position which extends the security tarp over the package entrapping the package between the interior of the security tarp and the interior region of the frame. The security tarp having at least a portion secured to the frame and at least a portion secured by the security rail. 
     Additional shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having concealed security tarp. The method comprising the step of placing a package securing doormat frame at a package receiving location. The package securing doormat frame comprising a frame, a security rail, and a security tarp. The frame which defines an interior region for receiving at least one of a mat. The frame having a recessed chamber along at least a portion of the frame perimeter. The securing rail is operationally related to the frame and repositionable. The securing rail in an open position is located proximate the recessed chamber. 
     Continuing, are the steps of monitoring or controlling the package securing doormat frame by way of a web-enabled control system and allowing a package delivery person to place at least one of a package on the mat. 
     Additional steps include securing the package by repositioning the security rail from the open position to a closed position which extends the security tarp over the package entrapping the package between the interior of the security tarp and the interior region of the frame. The security tarp having at least a portion secured to the frame and at least a portion secured by the security rail. The method further including the step of alarming when attempted theft of the package is detected. 
     Systems, manufacturing, and computer program products corresponding to the above-summarized methods are also described and claimed herein. 
     Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of the invention are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed invention. For a better understanding of the invention with advantages and features, refer to the description and to the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates one example of a house or business equipped with a package securing doormat frame; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates one example of a package securing doormat frame installation; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates one example of a package securing doormat frame with a solid and optionally adjustable back panel installation; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates one example of a package securing doormat frame installation utilizing anchor bolts; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates examples of a security tarp; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates one example of a package securing doormat frame transitioning from the open position to the closed position; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates one example of a package delivery person placing packages on a mat, the packages are then secured by a package securing doormat frame; 
         FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a package securing doormat frame; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates one example of a package securing doormat frame that is web-enabled; 
         FIGS. 10 and 11  illustrate examples of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having concealed security tarp; and 
         FIG. 12  illustrates exemplary embodiments of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having concealed security tarp. 
     
    
    
     The detailed description explains the preferred embodiments of the invention, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Turning now to the drawings in greater detail, it will be seen that in  FIG. 1  there is illustrated one example of a house or business  100  equipped with a package securing doormat frame  200 . Consumers take pride in how their house looks from the street. In fact, Realtors call this curb appeal. An advantage in the present invention is that while providing delivered unattended package security, the front of the consumer&#39;s home or business is not encumbered by unsightly cages or bulky security drop boxes. Rather, the front doormat can be placed in a package securing doormat frame that while bringing a touch of elegance to the front entrance of the home or business also doubles to secure delivered unattended packages. 
     In this regard, the package securing doormat frame comprises a frame  204  which forms an interior region  224  for receiving at least one of a mat  202 , the frame  204  having a recessed chamber  210  along at least a portion of the frame perimeter. A securing rail  218  is operationally related to the frame  204  and repositionable, the securing rail  218  in an open position is located proximate the recessed chamber  210 . A security tarp  214  has at least a portion secured to the frame  204  and at least a portion secured by the security rail  218 . The security tarp  214  is stored in the recessed chamber  210 . Illustrated better in at least  FIG. 6 , when at least one of a package  302  is placed on the mat  202  the package  302  is secured by repositioning the security rail  218  from the open position to a closed position, the closed position extending the security tarp  214  over the package  302  securing the package between the interior of the security tarp  214  and the interior region  224  of the frame. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2  there is illustrated one example of a package securing doormat frame  200  installation. In an exemplary embodiment, while not excluding plastics, preferably the frame  204  is made of metal such as steel, aluminum, or other metal. A portion of the frame can be u-channel facing upwards to create the recessed chamber  210  and a portion of the frame can be a square tube. The u-channel and square tube can then be combined and welded to form the frame  204 . 
     In another exemplary embodiment, square tubing can be used for frame  204  and the recessed channel  210  can be formed by cutting a portion of the top surface of the frame  204 . In another exemplary embodiment, the frame can be formed by whatever shape material is desired and a recessed chamber can be welded or otherwise bonded onto the frame. 
     In a plurality of other exemplary embodiments the frame can be formed by different methods, plastics, metals, and assembly techniques, as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     In some neighborhoods or with some consumer  306  preferences it may be acceptable or desirable to simply place the frame  204  on the ground  102  and position the mat  202  in the interior region  224  of the frame  204  to complete the installation. 
     In other neighborhoods or with other consumer  306  preferences it might be desirable to place an adhesive  208 A in strip or cutout sheet form around the perimeter of the frame  204  and adhere the frame  204  to the ground  101 . Such adhesive  208 A can be a double sticky sided foam tape, COMMAND STRIPS, or other types and kinds of adhesive as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, adhesive  208 B can be dispensed from a tube  222  or caulk gun. In this regard, a thick bead of silicone waterproof caulk, LIQUID NAILS adhesive, elastomer caulk such as used with flashing and roof applications, and other type and kinds or caulks, adhesives, and sealants can be used as may be required and desired in a particular embodiment. 
     Such type of adhesive material and methods of applying can be selected based on the desired strength it would take to remove the frame  204  from the ground  102  and/or the potential damage it may cause upon removal to the ground  102  surface like brick, stone, concrete, or other types of surface. In this regard, a thick bead of silicon-based caulk might be sufficient to secure the frame  204  to the ground  102  to thwart a porch-bandit, as well as prevent rainwater from running under the frame  204  but still enable the consumer  306  to, with reasonable effort, remove the frame  204  from the ground  102  with little to no damage to the ground  102  surface material. Large COMMAND STRIP type adhesives also offer superior bonding and strength but can be removed by the consumer with reasonable effort. Stronger adhesives like LIQUID NAILS and other similar hold stronger but may impact how easily the frame  204  can later be removed from the ground  102  by the consumer  306 . 
     Once the frame  204  is positioned and/or adhered to the ground  102  the mat  202  can be placed in the interior region  224 . Also illustrated is the security rail  218  located proximate the recessed chamber  210  and the security tarp  214  concealed or otherwise stored in the receded chamber  210 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3  there is illustrated one example of a package securing doormat frame with a solid and optionally adjustable back panel  206  installation. Similar in installation to  FIG. 2 , in this exemplary embodiment, a back panel  206  is fastened to the bottom or interior sides of the frame  204 . The back panel  206  can be fabricated from preferably metal however other materials can be selected as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. One of the purposes of the back panel is to create a larger surface area for the adhesive  208 . In this regard, the larger surface area enables the use of more adhesive sheeting, foams, COMMAND STRIP, tube  222  based caulks, sealants, or adhesive. The additional adhesive engenders a stronger bond to the ground  102  surfaces. 
     An advantage, in an exemplary embodiment, and another purpose of the back panel  206  is that the back panel  206  can adjust the distance between the top edge of the frame  204  and the top surface of the back panel  206 . In this regard, if the mat  202  is thin in comparison to the thickness of the frame  204  the mat  202  can nest too deep into the frame  204  interior making a user of the mat  202  feel like they are stepping down into the frame  204  to use the mat  202 . Also the mat  202  while nested too deep in the frame cannot be easily seen as guests approach the house or business  100 . Furthermore, a mat  202  nested too deep in the frame  204  can create a tripping hazard as users of the mat  202  are having to step down into and out of the frame  204  to enter or leave the house or business  100 . To remedy this, the back panel  206  sets the depth distance effectively raising the mat  202  so that the top of the mat  202  is aligned with the top of the frame  204 . In operation, the back panel  206  can be manufactured so that a consumer  306  can adjust the depth of the back panel to accommodate the thickness of their mat  202 , effectively customizing the alignment of the top of their mat  202  with the top of the frame  204 . 
     Another advantage in the present invention of the back panel  206  is that it seals the bottom of the frame  204  from the ground and ingress on debris, surface water, ants, and bugs. This is important if the consumer  306  is planning on receiving packages of food or other packages where it if preferable they do not get dirty, wet, or infested ants, and bugs. 
     Once the frame  204  is positioned and/or adhered to the ground  102  the mat  202  can be placed in the interior region  224  of the frame  204 . Also illustrated is security rail  218  located proximate the recessed chamber  210  and the security tarp  214  concealed within the recessed chamber  210 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4  there is illustrated one example of a package securing doormat frame  204  installation utilizing anchor bolts  212 A- 212 D. In another exemplary embodiment, if the installation methods and techniques of  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 3 , with the use of caulks or adhesives are inadequate to secure the frame  204  to the ground  102  then anchor bolts  212 A- 212 D can fasten the frame  204  to the ground  102 . 
     Once the frame  204  is positioned, fastened, and/or adhered to the ground  102  the mat  202  can be placed in the interior region  224  of the frame  204 . Also illustrated is the security rail  218  located proximate the recessed chamber and the security tarp  214  concealed or otherwise stored within the recessed chamber  210 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5  there is illustrated examples of a security tarp  214 . In an exemplary embodiment, a security tarp  214  is cut and tear resistant and well suited to prevent a porch-bandit from removing a package from the mat with the package securing doormat frame  200  is in the closed position where the security tarp  214  is extended over the package  302  thus securing the package  302  between the interior of the security tarp and the interior region  224  of the frame  204 . To this end, there are several materials and combinations of materials that are well suited to be used as a security tarp  214 . Such a list is provided as an example and not as a limitation. 
     Such security tarp  214  material is preferably cut, tear, and break resistant netting  214 A. The spacing of the net fiber web can be wide as in  214 A or closer together like in  214 B. The fibers can be nylon, KEVLAR rope, metal wire, wire rope, rope, chain, or other material as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     Such fibers can from an open net where the package  302  can be seen with the net extended over the package  302  or can be combined into a sheet  214 C such as plastic, KEVLAR sheeting, canvas, or other material which blocks the package  302  from sight. In addition, when such a reinforced sheet covers the packages  302  it can secure as well as be weather resistant to snow and rain when such is the desired feature. 
     Additionally, such sheet can be a thermal blanket  214 D. In this regard, the package securing doormat frame  200  can incorporate a heating  626  or cooling  624  system. Such a system is better illustrated in at least  FIG. 9 . Such a thermal blanket  214 D can be reinforced with other sheets  214 C as well as netting  214 A or  214 B for security. The thermal blanket  214 D is desirable when the package securing doormat frame  200  is used to receive hot food or prevent freezing in cold weather and/or packages that require refrigeration such as medical supplies and/or prescriptions or prevent packages from overheating in hot weather. 
     The thermal blanket not only aids in temperature control of the secured interior region  224  between the interior of the security tarp  214  and the mat  202  but can also be useful to abate heated direct sunlight. In this regard, when the package securing doormat frame  200  is a place where delivered packages are in direct sunlight overheating of the package contents could occur. In this situation, the thermal blanket security tarp extended across the packages to help shield the packages from a portion of the sun induced heat. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6  there is illustrated one example of a package securing doormat frame  200  transitioning from the open position to the closed position. Three positions are illustrated. Position ‘A’ is the open position, position ‘B’ is the transition position, and position ‘C’ is the closed position. 
     Starting with the open position ‘A’, in an exemplary embodiment a package securing doormat frame  200  is placed at a package receiving location  100  such as a home or business. The package securing doormat frame  200  comprises a frame  204 , a security rail  218 , and a security tarp  214 . 
     The frame  204  forms an interior region  224  within the perimeter of the frame  204  for receiving at least one of a mat  202 . The frame  204  has a recessed chamber  210  along at least a portion of the frame  204  perimeter. The securing rail  218  is operationally related with the frame  204  and repositionable. The security rail  218  is located proximate the recessed chamber  210  and the security tarp  214  is concealed within the recessed chamber  210 . The securing rail  218  is in an open position. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the securing rail  218  can be shaped and fitted to seal or otherwise cover the recessed chamber  210  from ingress of debris and water when the security rail  218  is in the open position. 
     In position ‘B’, a package delivery person  304  has placed at least one package  302  on mat  202 . The security rail  218  can then be transitioned by hand  304  or if a web-enabled control system  600  is in use automatically transitioned from the open position towards the closed position causing the security tarp  214  which is attached to the security rail  218  to emerge from storage in the recessed chamber and extend across the package  302 . 
     In position ‘C’ the package is secured by repositioning the security rail  218  from the open position to a closed position which extended the security tarp  214  over the package  302  entrapping the package  302  between the interior of the security tarp  214  and the interior region  224  of the frame  203 . The security tarp  214  has at least a portion secured to the frame  204  and at least a portion secured by the security rail  218 . 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the security rail  218  comprises a security edge  226  and the frame  204  further comprising a security latch  216 . The security edge  226  and security latch  216  interlock holding the security rail  218  in the closed position. 
     A security rail locking mechanism  220  is integrated into the frame  204 , the security rail locking mechanism  220  effectuates the ability to lock and unlock the security rail  218  from the closed position. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, in the closed position the security rail  218  is latched or otherwise locked into position by way of the security rail locking mechanism  220 . Once latched it will require a key, code, electronic signal data communicated to a web-enabled of a package securing doormat frame  200 , or similar to unlatch or otherwise unlock the security rail  218  so that the package  302  can be retrieved. 
     In this regard, upon arriving to retrieve the package  302 , the consumer  306  unlocks the security rail  218  manually and by hand return the security rail  218  and security tarp  214  to the open position ‘A’, re-storing the security tarp  214  in the recessed chamber  210 . 
     If a web-controlled control system  600  is in use such returning to position ‘A’ can be automatic and/or effectuated by way of authorization being data communicated to the package securing doormat frame  200  with instructions to return to the open position. A security tarp actuator  630 , better illustrated in at least  FIG. 9 , can be used to transition the security rail  218  between the open position and the closed position. 
     The term “web-enabled” or “web-enabled control system” or “web-enabled control system  600 ” in the present invention is intended to mean an Internet-of-things device. In this regard, a device which is capable of connecting a physical device such as the package securing doormat frame  200  to the digital world. State differently, web-enabling is equipping a device with the necessary electronics to be monitored, controlled, and data communicate locally and remotely with other data communicating devices. Such other data communicating devices can be smart-phones, tablets, laptops, other web-enabled devices, servers, and similar devices. For purposes of disclosure and with reference to at least  FIG. 9 , these other data communicating devices can be referred to as a data device  506 . The web-enabled camera  402  can be referred to as a data device. 
     In addition, such data devices  506  can data communicate with remote data processing resources  504  and utilize data storage resources  502 . Such data processing resources can be a server or other types and kinds of data processing resources. Furthermore, data devices  506 , remote data processing resources  504 , data storage resources  502  and other types and kinds of data communicating devices can data communicate over a global network  500 . The global network  500  can be the Internet. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7  there is illustrated one example of a package delivery person  304  placing packages  302  on a mat  202 , the packages  302  are then secured by a package securing doormat frame  200 . In an exemplary embodiment, the package securing doormat frame  200  is placed at the front door of a house or business  100  or other convenient package receiving location. 
     When a package delivery person  304  arrives at the location  100  with packages  302  they can quickly place on the mat  202  and transition the security rail  218  from the open position to the closed position. In the closed position, the security rail  218  is latched or otherwise locked into position by way of security rail locking mechanism  220 . Once latched it will require a key, code, electronic signal data communicated to a web-enabled package securing doormat frame  200 , or similar to unlatch or otherwise unlock the security rail  218  so that the package  302  can be retrieved. 
     The security rail  218  comprises a security edge  226  and the frame  204  further comprising a security latch  216 . The security edge  226  and security latch  216  interlock holding the security rail  218  in the closed position. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the security rail locking mechanism  220  is integrated into the frame  204 , the security rail  218  release locking mechanism  220  effectuates the ability to lock and unlock the security rail  218  from the closed position. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a web-enabled camera  402  can be positioned to observe the package securing doormat frame  200 . In this regard, by way of a camera  402  an optical motion free zone around the package securing doormat frame  200  can be established. Such an optical free zone occurs when a camera compares success images of the same view to determine if a change has occurred and if so has a preset motion threshold been reached. Such a camera  402  can be a RING device, surveillance camera, or other cameras. Camera  402  can also be combined with PIR sensors to detect motion. 
     When motion is detected, by way of the camera  402 , within the motion free zone, an alarm condition is initiated. Such alarm condition can include recording video, by way of the camera  402 , sending a secure package notification to a predetermined recipient, activating an alarm bell or voice, or initiating other alarms as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C  there is illustrated exemplary embodiments of a package securing doormat frame  200 . With reference to  FIG. 8A , there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of a package securing doormat frame  200  that has been equipped with a heating system  624  and/or a cooling system  626 . In this regard, in combination with a security tarp  214  packages such as food, medical prescriptions, perishables, and other package  302  types that benefit from being kept warm or cold can be accommodated. The heating system  624  and/or the cooling system  626  can be integrated into the frame  204  to keep the package  302  warm or cold, as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     An advantage in the present invention is that the heating  624  and cooling  626  systems can be used in combination with a thermal blanket material security tarp  214  to enable warming of the package  302  to prevent freezing in cold weather and/or cooling of the package  302  to prevent overheating in hot weather. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8B  there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of interconnecting more than one package securing doormat frame  204 A and  204 B together. In this regard, each can operate independently to accommodate additional packages. An advantage can be that if more than one package delivery person delivers packages each delivery can be secured without having to open a previously secured a package securing doormat frame. This also offers an attractive option for homes or business  100  that have double doors and would ideally have a mat associated with each door. 
     In an alternative exemplary embodiment, a single security tarp  214  can be configured to cover more than one frame  204 A and  204 B. In this regard, more packages  302  and/or larger size packages  302  can be accommodated with a single security tarp  214  spanning multiple co-joined interior regions  224 . In a plurality of exemplary embodiments, a combination of single security tarp  214  secures single frame  204  and a mix of single security tarp  214  secures multiple interior regions  224  of frames  204  interlocked together can be configured to meet package delivery person  304  and/or consumer  306  needs, as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8C  there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment that interconnects a package securing doormat frame  204 B with one or more of package securing doormat frame lockbox  204 C. The lockbox  204 C made of metal or other desirable materials is designed to receive valuables such as money  702 A, medical prescriptions  702 B, important papers  702 C, and other types and kinds of packages that are small and/or require lockbox types security. The lockbox  204 C can be opened and closed by key, code, electronic signal data communicated to a web-enabled package securing doormat frame  200 , or other methods as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
     An advantage in the present invention is that the exemplary embodiments can be mixed and matched to configure the package securing doormat frames, lockboxes, and other capabilities as required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. As an example and not a limitation, three package securing doormat frames can be interlocked together or a lockbox can be fashioned between two package securing doormat frames. In other embodiments two package securing doormat frames can be interlocked together and one of the package securing doormat frames can be configured to heat and the other equipped to cool. In a plurality of exemplary embodiments, the flexibility of the present invention to mix package securing doormat frames, lockboxes, and other functional units allows the consumer  306  to configure a fit-for-purpose package securing system to meet their individual needs. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9  there is illustrated one example of a package securing doormat frame  200  that is web-enabled. 
     The term “web-enabled” or “web-enabled control system” or “web-enabled control system  600 ” in the present invention is intended to mean an Internet-of-things device. In this regard, a device which is capable of connecting a physical device such as the package securing doormat frame  200  to the digital world. State differently, web-enabling is equipping a device with the necessary electronics to be monitored, controlled, and data communicate locally and remotely with other data communicating devices. Such other data communicating devices can be smart-phones, tablets, laptops, other web-enabled devices, servers, and similar devices. 
     In addition, such data devices  506  can data communicate with remote data processing resources  504  and utilize data storage resources  502 . Such data processing resources can be a server or other types and kinds of data processing resources. Furthermore, data devices  506 , remote data processing resources  504 , data storage resources  502  and other types and kinds of data communicating devices can data communicate over a global network  500 . The global network  500  can be the Internet. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the package securing doormat frame  200  can be equipped with a web-enabled control system  600 . Such a web-enabled control system can comprise a microcontroller  602  which is operationally related to a plurality of communication interfaces  604 , a power supply  606 , a security tarp controller  608 , a display  610 , general purpose inputs and outputs (GPIO) interface  612 , a memory  614 , a camera interface  616 , a plurality of sensors  618 , an alarm  620 , ambient condition sensors  622 , a heating system  624 , a cooling system  626 , and global position system device  628 . The security tarp controller  608  can be interconnected with a security tarp actuator  630 . 
     The microcontroller  602  can be an INTEL, ZILOG, MICROCHIP, AMD, ARM, and/or other types or kinds of microcontrollers. 
     The communication interfaces  604  can be LAN, WAN, USB, Ethernet, RS232, RS485, serial, WiFi, 802.11abgn and similar, 2G 3G 4G 5G compatible, Bluetooth, TCP, UDP, Mesh Network, Zigbee, Pico Network, LORAN, and/or other types and kinds of communication interfaces and protocols. 
     The power supply  606  can be AC, DC, battery, solar, and/or other types and kinds of power supplies. 
     The security tarp controller  608  can be a relay, MOSFET or other types and kinds of controlling devices. The Security tarp actuator  630  can be a motor, solenoid, and/or other types and kinds of actuators. 
     The display  610  can be an LCD, OLED, LED, and/or other types and kinds of displays. 
     The GPIO  612  can be TTL, CMOS, transistors, buffers, relays, pushbutton, switch, and/or other types and of types and kinds of GPIO circuits. 
     The memory  614  can be combinations of RAM, ROM, flash, hard drives, solid state drives, USB flash drives, and/or other types and kinds of memory. 
     The camera interface  616  can be integrated into the frame  204  or can remote so that the camera view is of the package securing doormat frame  200  and surrounding area. In addition, several cameras can be utilized to create a network of camera views that can monitor a broader area. Such multiple camera application can include some that are integrated into the frame  204  and some that are remote. Web-enabled camera  402  can interface and data communicate as one of the camera interface  616 . 
     The sensors  618  can be PIR motion sensors, infrared, thermal, Doppler radar, ultrasonic, capacitance, touch type, optical, Hall effect, switch, fingerprint and other types of biometric sensors, and/or other types and kinds of sensors. 
     The alarm  620  can be a noise lights, relays, siren, horn, piezo buzzer, speaker, voice annunciations, and/or other types and kinds of alarms. 
     The ambient condition sensors  622  can be temperature, moisture, humidity, sunlight, time, date, and/or other types and kinds of sensors. 
     The heating system  624  can be resistive heat with fan circulation, thermoelectric, and/or other types and kind of heating systems. 
     The cooling system  626  can be a Peltier thermoelectric system and/or other types and kinds of cooling systems. 
     The global position system (GPS) device  628  can be used to determine the geographic location of the package securing doormat frame. 
     In operation, in an exemplary embodiment, the package securing doormat frame  200  can be equipped with a web-enabled control system  600  so that the package securing doormat frame  200  can be remotely monitored and controlled. Such remote monitoring and control can be effectuated by the package delivery person  304 , the consumer  306 , a remote service provider  308 , and/or others as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. Such remote service provider  308  can be PorchBanditProtection.com, an alarm monitoring company, a package delivery company, or other types and kinds of remote service providers. 
     In addition, such remote monitoring control can be by way of digit device  506  or remote data processing resource  504 . Furthermore, package securing doormat frame  200  can be operated manually by hand illustrated as the package delivery person  304 A and the consumer  306 A and/or through a control panel  508 , when so configured, illustrated as the package delivery person  304 B or the consumer  306 B. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the security rail  218  comprises a security edge  226  and the frame  204  further comprising a security latch  216 . The security edge  226  and security latch  216  interlock holding the security rail  218  in the closed position. 
     A security rail locking mechanism  220  is integrated into the frame  204 , the security rail locking mechanism  220  effectuates the ability to lock and unlock the security rail  218  from the closed position. Such security rail locking mechanism  220  in a web-enabled control system  600  application can be actuated locally or remotely controlled. 
     In the closed position the security rail  218  is latched or otherwise locked into position by way of security rail locking mechanism  220 . Once latched it will require a key, code, electronic signal data communicated to a web-enabled of a package securing doormat frame  200 , or similar to unlatch the security rail  218  so that the package  302  can be retrieved. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10  there is illustrated one example of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having a concealed security tarp. In an exemplary embodiment, the method begins in block  1002 . 
     In block  1002  a package securing doormat frame  200  is placed at a package receiving location such as house or business  100 . The package securing doormat frame  200  comprises a frame  204 , a security rail  218 , and a security tarp  214 . The frame  204  forms an interior region  224  for receiving at least one of a mat  202 . The frame  204  has a recessed chamber  210  along at least a portion of the frame  204  perimeter. The securing rail  218  is operationally related to frame  204  and repositionable. The securing rail  218  in an open position is located proximate the recessed chamber  210 , such as illustrated in at least position ‘A’ of  FIG. 6 . The method moves to block  1004 . 
     In block  1004 , a package delivery person  304  is allowed to place at least one of a package  302  on the mat  202 . The method moves to block  1006 . 
     In block  1006 , the package  302  is secured by repositioning the security rail  218  from the open position to a closed position which extends the security tarp  214  over the package  302  entrapping the package  302  between the interior of the security tarp  214  and the interior region  224  of the frame  204 . The closed position is illustrated in at least position ‘C’ of  FIG. 6 . The security tarp  214  has at least a portion secured to the frame  204  and at least a portion secured by the security rail  218 . The method is then exited. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11  there is illustrated one example of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having a concealed security tarp. In an exemplary embodiment, the method begins in block  1102 . 
     In block  1102  a package securing doormat frame  200  is placed at a package receiving location such as house or business  100 . The package securing doormat frame  200  comprises a frame  204 , a security rail  218 , and a security tarp  214 . The frame  204  forms an interior region  224  for receiving at least one of a mat  202 . The frame  204  has a recessed chamber  210  along at least portion of the frame  204  perimeter. The securing rail  218  is operationally related to frame  204  and repositionable. The securing rail  218  in an open position is located proximate the recessed chamber  210 , such as illustrated in at least position ‘A’ of  FIG. 6 . The method moves to block  1104 . 
     In block  1104 , the package securing doormat frame  200  is monitored and/or controlled by way of a web-enabled control system  600 . The method moves to block  1106 . 
     In block  1106 , a package delivery person  304  is allowed to place at least one of a package  302  on the mat  202 . The method moves to block  1108 . 
     In block  1108 , the package  302  is secured by repositioning the security rail  218  from the open position to a closed position which extends the security tarp  214  over the package  302  entrapping the package  302  between the interior of the security tarp  214  and the interior region  224 . The closed position is illustrated in at least position ‘C’ of  FIG. 6 . The security tarp  214  has at least a portion secured to the frame  204  and at least a portion secured by the security rail  218 . The method moves to block  1110 . 
     In block  1108  an alarm is initiated when attempted theft of the package  302  is detected. The method is then exited. 
     Referring to  FIG. 12  there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of a method of protecting packages by way of a package securing doormat frame having a concealed security tarp. 
     In block  1202  by way of a camera, an optical motion free zone is established around the package securing doormat frame. The method moves to block  1204 . 
     In block  1204 , when motion is detected, by way of the camera, within the motion free zone an alarm is initiated. The method moves to block  1206 . 
     In block  1206 , selectively, video is recorded by way of the camera when the step of alarming has been detected. 
     In block  1208 , the package  302  is heated and/or cooled by way of a heating system  624  or a cooling system  626 . 
     In block  1210 , the frame  204  can be adhered to the ground  102  to prevent the frame  204  from easily being moved. 
     In block  1212 , the package securing doormat frame  200  can be monitored and/or controlled by way of a web-enabled control system  600 . 
     In block  1214 , with reference to at least  FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C , one or more of a second package securing doormat frame  200 A and  200 B or one or more of a package securing doormat frame lockbox  204 C can be interconnected. 
     In block  1216 , transition the security tarp  214  to the closed position can be automated, by way of, using a plurality of sensors  618  to detect the package has been placed on the mat. The method moves to block  1218 . 
     In block  1218 , a secure package notification can be sent to a predetermined recipient, by way of, the web-enabled control system  600 . 
     In block  1220 , the package  302  having been placed on the mat  202  can be sensed and the security tarp  214  automatically transitioning to the closed position. 
     In block  1222 , the security tarp  214  can be transitioned to the open position, upon receipt of authorization. Such authorization can be sent or otherwise provided by a package delivery person  304  or a courier company, the consumer  306 , or remote service center  308 . The method moves to block  1224 . 
     In block  1224 , such authorization technique is applicable when the package securing doormat frame  200  is already securing at least one of the package  302  to allow a second package delivery person to place at least one of a second package on the mat  202 . The method moves to block  1226 . 
     In block  1226 , the security tarp  214  is transitioned back to the closed position, securing the package and the second package therein. 
     The capabilities of the present invention can be implemented in software, firmware, hardware or some combination thereof. 
     As one example, one or more aspects of the present invention can be included in an article of manufacture (e.g., one or more computer program products) having, for instance, computer usable media. The media has embodied therein, for instance, computer readable program code means for providing and facilitating the capabilities of the present invention. The article of manufacture can be included as a part of a computer system or sold separately. 
     Additionally, at least one program storage device readable by a machine, tangibly embodying at least one program of instructions executable by the machine to perform the capabilities of the present invention can be provided. 
     The flow diagrams depicted herein are just examples. There may be many variations to these diagrams or the steps (or operations) described therein without departing from the spirit of the invention. For instance, the steps may be performed in a differing order, or steps may be added, deleted or modified. All of these variations are considered a part of the claimed invention. 
     While the preferred embodiment to the invention has been described, it will be understood that those skilled in the art, both now and in the future, may make various improvements and enhancements which fall within the scope of the claims which follow. These claims should be construed to maintain the proper protection for the invention first described.