Patent Document

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/316,956, filed Apr. 1, 2016, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD 
       [0002]    This disclosure relates to apparatuses, systems, and methods for receiving and delivering parcels. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a smart parcel box and systems and methods which make use of the smart parcel box. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    The growth of e-commerce and online shopping, expanded use of the Internet, and the increased efficiency of distribution and delivery systems, among other things, have led to an increase in parcel deliveries. Even in situations where products are not ordered using e-commerce or online methods, products are increasingly shipped from more centralized locations rather than being stocked at a larger number of widely distributed stores or warehouses. Customers order an increasing number of products and types of products for delivery to their home or business rather than visiting a local business in person to purchase the products. 
         [0004]    Delivery of parcels can be problematic, particularly to residential locations, for a number of reasons including: the recipient is not home or available to receive the parcel, parcels left unattended may be subject to theft or environmental damage, parcel re-delivery is time consuming and costly, parcel return is costly, and returned or undelivered parcels often lead to dissatisfied customers. Parcel deliveries are often missed because no one is present to accept the parcel, because no one is free to answer the door to accept the parcel, because one is at work, because one is traveling, and/or for other reasons. If a parcel is left outside, it may not be picked up for an extended period of time if the person is traveling, is staying at another residence, and/or does not realize the parcel has been left. Shipping companies often leave door tags giving the recipient the option of scheduling a re-delivery or picking up the parcel or package at another location. Such options can be inconvenient, challenging, and/or frustrating for the recipient. 
         [0005]    Recipients often try to plan orders ahead of time by estimating when the order will be delivered and attempting to coordinate the deliver with work or travel schedules. In addition, as automated and semi-automated methods of parcel shipping and delivery are explored, improved apparatuses, systems, and methods of parcel receipt will be necessary to realize the full advantages of these improved shipping and delivery methods. 
         [0006]    The term ‘parcel’ is used herein to describe any type of package, box, or delivered item or items, including food delivery. The term parcel may include items that are delivered from a distance through a shipping company or items that are delivered directly by a local provider, such as a grocery delivery service from a local supermarket. The term parcel may also refer to an item that is not in a traditional shipping box or container. As used herein, the term ‘parcel’ may refer to boxes, packages, bags, envelopes, letters, papers, documents, gifts, delivered food, groceries, flowers, pharmaceuticals, books, magazines, newspapers, or any other item that might be delivered. 
         [0007]    Improved apparatuses, systems, and methods for delivery and receipt of parcels are needed to improve efficiencies, reduce costs for shipping companies, improve customer satisfaction, improve customer convenience, and/or support continued growth of e-commerce and online ordering activities. While many of the examples herein are described with respect to delivery of parcels to residential locations, the disclosed apparatuses, systems, and methods are also applicable to business locations, retail locations, and anywhere a parcel may be delivered. Furthermore, even though many of the examples of herein are described with respect to delivery of parcels, the disclosed apparatuses, systems, and methods may also be used when shipping a package or parcel and leaving it for pick up by a delivery service, shipping service, or courier. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0008]    Apparatuses, methods, systems, and techniques for delivery and receipt of parcels are provided. In one example, a parcel box includes a weather resistant housing, a temperature control system, a communication module, and electrical circuitry. The weather resistant housing includes a lockable door for providing access to a protected cavity for receiving a parcel for temporary secure storage. The temperature control system selectively controls a temperature inside the protected cavity. The communication module receives delivery data including an estimated delivery time for the parcel. The electrical circuitry operates the temperature control system to adjust the temperature of the protected cavity to within a preferred temperature range prior to the estimated delivery time of the parcel and maintains the temperature for at least a specified period of time. 
         [0009]    In another example, a parcel box includes a weather resistant housing, an electronically controlled lock, an optical device, an internal parcel reader, a communication module, and electrical circuitry. The weather resistant housing includes a lockable door. The lockable door provides access to a cavity or storage area inside the weather resistant housing for receiving the parcel for temporary secure storage of the parcel. The electronically controlled lock is for locking and unlocking the lockable door. The optical device captures optical data external to the parcel box and the electronically controlled lock unlocks the door if the captured external optical data satisfies access criteria. The internal parcel reader reads parcel information from the parcel inside the cavity. The communication module is configured for wirelessly transmitting the parcel data for delivery to an electronic device that is external to and separate from the parcel box. The electrical circuitry is configured for controlling one or more of the electronically controlled lock, the optical device, the internal parcel reader, and the communication module. 
         [0010]    Various other embodiments and variations of the apparatuses, methods, and systems are also disclosed. While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and figures, which describe and show illustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of modifications in various aspects, all without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    Embodiments of the present invention will be described and explained through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  illustrates an operating environment in which a parcel box may be used; 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  illustrates a block diagram of a parcel box; and 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  illustrates an installed parcel box in a use environment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0015]    In the following detailed description, various specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of and describe the apparatuses and techniques introduced here. However, the techniques may be practiced without the specific details set forth in these examples. Various alternatives, modifications, and/or equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art without varying from the spirit of the introduced apparatuses and techniques. For example, while the embodiments described herein refer to particular features, the scope of this solution also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the techniques and solutions introduced herein are intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof. Therefore, the description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the claims. 
         [0016]    As described above, improved apparatuses, systems, and methods are needed for parcel delivery. Improved apparatuses, systems, and methods are needed to improve efficiencies and conveniences for parcel recipients, for shipping companies, and/or for parcel shippers. The improved apparatuses, systems, and methods may not only improve efficiencies and conveniences, but may also make it more practical to use parcel delivery services for a wider variety of products. While most of the examples provided herein are described with respect to receipt of parcels, the apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein may also be used for shipping of parcels and for transfer of parcels from a shipper to a shipping service provider. 
         [0017]      FIG. 1  illustrates an operating environment  100  in which a parcel box  110  may be used. Parcel box  110  is associated with a structure  120 . Structure  120  may be a house, a condominium building, an apartment building, an office, a business building, a warehouse, a garage, a recreational vehicle, a boat, a cabin, and/or any other structure or location where one or more people may wish receive parcels. While parcel box  110  is illustrated as being attached to structure  120 , and may even be integrated into structure  120 , this configuration is not necessary. Parcel box  110  may simply be near or in proximity to structure  120  and need not be physically attached to or in contact with structure  120 . In one example, parcel box  110  may be placed elsewhere on the same property or lot as structure  120  such that parcel box  110  is convenient for access by a shipping company and/or does not visually detract from structure  120 . In some configurations, parcel box  110  may be integrated into a wall of structure  120  such that parcel box  110  is accessible, or at least partially accessible, from both inside and outside structure  120 . In some situations, parcel box  110  may also be referred to as a delivery box, a package box, and/or a storage locker. 
         [0018]    Parcel box  110  includes communication device  112 . As will be described in various examples provided herein, parcel box  110  is a smart parcel box that electronically communicates with one or more other devices using communication device  112 . Communication device  112  may be configured and/or adapted for uni-directional and/or bidirectional communication. Communication device  112  may include any type of electrical or electronic components such as a transmitter, a receiver, a modulator, a demodulator, an amplifier, an antenna, a mixer, a filter, a computer processor, a digital signal processor, memory, analog components, digital components, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (an ASIC), a programmable device, a printed circuit board, an electrical connector, an electromechanical connector, and/or any other electrical, electronic, and/or electromechanical components for performing communication functions. Communication device  112  may be configured for wired and/or wireless communication methods. Communication device  112  may utilize or comply with one or more communication formats, protocols, or systems including: cellular communication standards, LTE, UMTS, WiMAX, EV-DO, CDMA, GSM, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth Smart, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), Zigbee, ANT, ANT+, Thread, Internet Protocol (IP), Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, ATM, FDDI, Near Field Communication (NFC), proprietary formats or protocols, and/or combinations thereof. 
         [0019]    In  FIG. 1 , dashed lines are generally used to represent wireless communication links and solid lines are generally used to represent wired communication links. However, it should be understood that any of the wireless communication links may be implemented as wired communication links and any of the wired communication links may be implemented as wireless communication links, including combinations thereof. 
         [0020]    Structure  120  includes a computing device  122 . Computing device  122  may be any type of computer, computer system, tablet computer, smartphone, server, home automation system, or any electronic device used to send or receive information electronically. Structure  120  also includes communication device  124 . Communication device  124  enables electronic communication between computing devices, such as computing device  122 , and other devices or networks as described in further detail herein. In some cases, communication device  124  may be a modem, a cable modem, a DSL modem, a hub, a router, a gateway, a proprietary communication device, and/or a combination thereof. 
         [0021]    Network  160  includes any network or combination of networks or components used for electronic communication, including the Internet. While network  160  is illustrated as a single element, network  160  may include many different elements, such as routers, hubs, and gateways, and may be distributed across or throughout a wide variety of geographical locations. 
         [0022]    Wireless network  150  includes any network or combination of networks or components for electronic wireless communication, including cellular systems and networks. While wireless network  150  is illustrated as a single element, wireless network  150  may include many different elements such as antennas, routers, hubs, and gateways, and may be distributed across a wide variety of geographical locations. In one example, wireless network  150  may include a local cellular antenna, and accompanying systems, through which communication device  112 , communication device  124 , and/or other devices conduct wireless communication. 
         [0023]    Personal electronic device  130  is any type of personal or portable electronic device used for communication, information retrieval, information viewing, and/or data storage. Personal electronic device  130  may be a cellular phone, a smartphone, a mobile communication device, a mobile computing device, a portable computing device, a tablet, a phablet (phone/tablet), a portable computer, a personal video player, an electronic media reader, an audio player, a handheld scanner, a camera, a GPS device, and/or an electronic computing or communication device of another type, including combinations thereof. 
         [0024]    Personal electronic device  130  may be used to communicate with other devices described herein using one or more of the wireless communication methods. Personal electronic device  130  may be used to communicate with, control, and/or gather information from or about parcel box  110  as described in the various examples herein. While personal electronic device  130  is illustrated outside of structure  120 , personal electronic device  130  may also be used inside structure  120 , inside another structure, and/or potentially at any geographic location. Personal electronic device  130  may communicate directly with communication device  112  and/or communication device  124  when in proximity to one or both of these devices and may also communicate with them through one or more of wireless network  150  and network  160 , particularly when in other geographic areas. 
         [0025]    In environment  100 , a party associated with parcel box  110  orders one or more products from seller  190 . The one or more products may be ordered electronically, by phone, and/or may be part of an automatic shipment. The order specifies that the products are to be shipped to a particular location where parcel box  110  is present. The products are shipped from warehouse  195  to parcel box  110  in the form of a parcel using delivery vehicle  180 . Warehouse  195  may or may not be at the same physical location as seller  190 . Delivery vehicle  180  is illustrated as a single vehicle but may include a variety of vehicles or transport mechanisms to complete the entire shipping process including: one or more trucks, one or more cars, one or more self-driving vehicles, one or more aircraft, one or more boats, one or more bicycles, and/or one or more drones. The delivery services may be provided by one or more delivery service entities such as United Parcel Service (UPS), Federal Express (FedEx), DHL, The United States Postal Service (USPS), other postal service providers, local delivery services, local couriers, and/or combinations thereof. Beneficially, more than one of these entities may have capability and/or permission or access to deliver parcels to parcel box  110 . 
         [0026]    In some situations, delivery vehicle  180  and/or an operator of delivery vehicle  180  may use portable delivery computer  182  to gather, receive, store, and/or transmit information related to delivery of parcels. Among other functions, portable delivery computer  182  may be used to track or document when and where a parcel has been delivered. Portable delivery computer  182  may communicate with communication device  112  of parcel box  110  as further detailed in the examples herein. Further, portable delivery computer  182  may communicate with other devices or systems through wireless network  150  and/or through a system included in delivery vehicle  180 . As described herein, parcel box  110  interfaces to and/or becomes part of the network of interconnected computer systems that provide and share information about parcel deliveries. 
         [0027]    As discussed in the various examples herein, parcel box  110  may include a variety of smart features enabling an owner or operator of parcel box  110  to manage, configure, monitor, and/or otherwise operate parcel box  110 . While some of these functions may involve direct communication with parcel box  110 , in some cases one or more functions or features of parcel box  110  may be managed, configured, monitored, and/or operated on, through, or with a remote server or computing platform. Parcel box management server  140  is one example of a computing system which may be used for one or more of these functions. Parcel box management server  140  may include a server, a computer, a computer processor, a proprietary computing platform, network storage capabilities, memory, a hard drive, and/or other computing hardware components. Parcel box management server  140  may also include software and/or other tools for performing the functions, or subsets of the functions, described in the various examples herein. Parcel box management server  140  may be accessed or used by any of computing device  122 , parcel box  110 , portable delivery computer  182 , personal electronic device  130 , seller  190 , warehouse  195 , and/or other devices or parties involved in the delivering parcels to or picking up parcels from parcel box  110 . Although parcel box management server  140  is illustrated as a single device, parcel box management server may be distributed across a number of computing devices and/or locations. In addition to being used to manage the various features, options, and/or configurations described herein, parcel box management server  140  may also include account management tools. 
         [0028]    In some cases, the various features, options, and/or configurations of the parcel boxes described herein may be offered on a subscription basis and/or under a pay-for-use model. Several of the features described herein and/or subsets of the features may be purchased or paid for by any combination of the parties described herein. In one example, an owner or user of parcel box  110  may pay incrementally for use of certain features or groups of features. In another example, parcel delivery or pickup companies may pay to have access privileges to parcel box  110  for the benefit of the owner or user of parcel box  110 . In some cases, parcel box  110  may have a flat rate. In other cases, the charges may have or include a per parcel fee. Further, parcel box  110  may be rented, leased, used on a subscription basis, and/or otherwise provided under various business models which may not necessarily include outright ownership of parcel box  110  by the end user. In some cases, the business model may also include setup fees, installation fees, per parcel fees, and/or monthly usage fees. 
         [0029]      FIG. 2  illustrates a block diagram of a parcel box  210 . Parcel box  210  is an example of parcel box  110  and may include any of the elements, features, functions, and/or characteristics of parcel box  110 . While the mechanical and/or electrical interconnections between various combinations of the elements of parcel box  210  are not illustrated in  FIG. 2 , it should be understood that any element of parcel box  210  may interact, mechanically and/or electrically, with other elements of parcel box  210 . Electrical interaction between various elements of parcel box  210  may be through wired connections, wireless connections, or both. 
         [0030]    Parcel box  210  includes communication module  212 . Communication module  212  is an example of communication device  112  and may include any of the elements, features, functions, and/or characteristics of communication device  112 . Communication module  212  may be configured to conduct one or more types of wired or wireless electronic communication with devices such as communication device  124 , personal electronic device  130 , network  160 , wireless network  150 , portable delivery computer  182 , other electronic devices or systems, and/or combinations thereof. Communication module  212  may also be capable of receiving and/or transmitting electronic communications directly from/to satellites and/or aircraft. Internet communication via satellite may be useful in circumstances when parcel box  210  is in a location where wireless network  150  and/or other communication networks are not available. Communication module  212  may also be capable of direct or indirect electronic communication with delivery vehicle  180 , regardless of whether delivery vehicle  180  is a terrestrial vehicle, an airborne vehicle, a drone, a boat, or another type of delivery vehicle. 
         [0031]    Parcel box  210  includes electrical circuitry  254  for performing, controlling, or otherwise assisting with the various functions described herein. Electrical circuitry  254  may include a computer processor, a digital signal processor, an application specific computer, memory, analog components, digital components, discrete components, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (an ASIC), a programmable device, a printed circuit board, an electrical connector, an electromechanical connector, and/or any other electrical, electronic, and/or electromechanical components. The memory of electrical circuitry  254  may contain non-transitory computer-executable software instructions for use by a computer processor to perform some or all of the functions described herein. Some or all of the memory may be in the form of a removable memory device or card. 
         [0032]    Parcel box  210  is designed to receive and temporarily store parcel(s). As described in further detail in other examples, parcel box  210  may include one or more storage compartments or cavities for the parcel(s) to at least temporarily protect the parcel(s) from theft and/or from the elements. The one or more storage compartments may each include one or more locking features, such as locking system  225 , that enable the parcel(s) to be secured in parcel box  210  and only accessed by permitted persons or enabled devices. Locking system  225  may include an electronic lock that can be electronically locked or unlocked by an electronic device such as user interface  214 , personal electronic device  130 , portable delivery computer  182 , and/or computing device  122 . Locking system  225  may be electronically locked or unlocked through direct communication with one of these other devices or it may receive electronic communication through other devices and/or networks. 
         [0033]    Locking system  225  may include electrical, electronic, mechanical, and/or electromechanical components. Locking system  225  may interface to or work in conjunction with door actuator(s)  251  to allow opening of one or more doors which provide access to the compartment(s) of parcel box  210 . Door actuator(s)  251  may simply lock and unlock the door(s) or may also physically open and close the door(s). Door actuator(s)  251  may physically open the door(s) to make it easier for a delivery person who is carrying a parcel, to accommodate a drone delivery system, and/or to accommodate an unmanned delivery vehicle or system. Door actuator(s)  251  may include a motor, a servo, a solenoid, a spring, a pressurized cylinder, and/or a pneumatic device. 
         [0034]    Parcel box  210  may also include sensor(s)  232  for sensing various parameters related to parcel box  210 . Sensor(s)  232  may include an inside temperature sensor and/or an outside temperature sensor. Sensor(s)  232  may also include a movement sensor, an accelerometer, a proximity sensor, a door switch, a motion sensor, and/or a tamper sensor for detecting when parcel box  210  has been moved, tampered with, and/or opened without authorization. 
         [0035]    Parcel box  210  also includes cooling unit  246  which may include various types of cooling or refrigeration components for cooling one or more of the parcel compartment(s) or cavities of parcel box  210  and/or one or more other areas of parcel box  210 , including areas containing electronics. In some situations, cooling unit  246  may also be referred to as a refrigeration unit. The one or more parcel compartment(s) may be cooled to preserve or protect a parcel that has been delivered, such as perishable groceries or pharmaceuticals. In addition, the one or more parcel compartment(s) may be used for delivery of prepared food or for delivery of fresh ingredients for self-prepared meals. 
         [0036]    Similarly, heating unit  245  may be used to heat one or more compartments or cavities of parcel box  210  to a preferred temperature or to a preferred temperature range to keep a parcel from freezing and/or to keep it in a preferred temperature range. In some situations, parcel box  210  may be used for delivery of prepared food and heating unit  245  may be used to keep that food hot until it is removed. Parcel box  210  may also include one or more fans for use alone or in conjunction with cooling unit  246 . One or more of heating unit  245  and cooling unit  246  may also be referred to as a temperature control system, a temperature control module, a heating unit, a cooling unit, ventilation, and/or a heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) device. 
         [0037]    Temperatures that are maintained in one or more compartments of parcel box  210  using cooling unit  246  and/or heating unit  245  may be set based on information or based on product information provided by one or more of: computing device  122 , personal electronic device  130 , portable delivery computer  182 , parcel box management server  140 , a label or tag on a parcel, seller  190 , and/or warehouse  195 . One or more of these systems may provide information, package information, shipment, information, an/or delivery data about the product being delivered and/or may provide a preferred temperature or range associated with the product enabling parcel box  210  to provide a preferred environment for the parcel until it is removed. In some cases, parcel box  210  may begin controlling the temperature when the product arrives. In other cases, parcel box  210  may receive information about the parcel before it arrives, including an expected arrival time or estimated delivery time, in order to prepare the environment, including the temperature, before the parcel arrives. 
         [0038]    Parcel box  210  may include power storage device(s)  222  for powering various components of parcel box  210 . Power storage device(s)  222  may include one or more batteries, one or more rechargeable batteries, and/or one or more fuel cells. Alternately, or in addition, power storage device(s)  222  may comprise a fuel tank that stores fuel for power a generator or other power generation device for powering one or more components of parcel box  210 . In some configurations, parcel box  210  may include solar panel(s)  221  for photovoltaically generating energy for immediate use and/or for storage in power storage device(s)  222 . In addition, or alternatively, parcel box  210  may receive electrical power from an external electrical source through an external electrical interface, such as external electrical interface  213 . A power source may be connected to external electrical interface  213  permanently, semi-permanently, or only temporarily for purposes of charging power storage device(s)  222 . In addition to providing power, external electrical interface  213  may also be used for exchanging data communications between parcel box  210  and other devices. 
         [0039]    Parcel box  210  may also include user interface  214 . User interface  214  may include one or more means for directly interacting with parcel box  210  in addition to the interaction with parcel box  210  that occurs through other devices or systems. User interface  214  may include buttons, a keypad, an interactive user panel, a display, a liquid crystal display, indicators, a touch screen panel, a touch sensitive panel, a gesture sensing device, a biometric input device, a biometric sensor, a fingerprint scanner, an iris scanner, a microphone, a speaker, and/or other visual, audible, or tactile components for facilitating interaction between a human and parcel box  210 . Some or all of the features accessible through user interface  214  may also be accessible through a software interface on a device such as personal electronic device  130 , computing device  122 , and/or portable delivery computer  182 . In one specific example, some or all of the features available at user interface  214  may be controllable from a software application (also referred to as “an app”) running on personal electronic device  130  and/or may be accessible through a webpage hosted on parcel box management server  140 . In some cases, the software application may be downloadable from parcel box management server  140 . 
         [0040]    Parcel box  210  may also include location system  224  for determining and/or communicating a location of parcel box  210 . Location system  224  may include a GPS (global positioning satellite) module for determining location using the GPS system. Location system  224  may also include components or circuitry for determining location using other techniques including using wireless network  150  and/or using triangulation techniques. The location information generated by location system  224  may be used in several ways. In one use, the location information may be used upon initial installation of parcel box  210  to establish a known, fixed location for parcel box  210 . In a further use, the location information may be transmitted to a seller  190 , to a delivery person, and/or to delivery vehicle  180  for purposes of more efficiently guiding delivery vehicle  180  to parcel box  210  for a delivery. The location information may be used in conjunction with or as an alternative to conventional street addresses. 
         [0041]    In a further use, the location information generated by location system  224  may be used when an order is placed. The location information may be received by computing device  122  and/or personal electronic device  130  and transmitted along with the order to seller  190  and/or warehouse  195  just as a street address would traditionally be provided. In this way, parcel box  210  becomes the delivery location. 
         [0042]    In some cases, the location information may be refreshed and updated periodically. For example, when parcel box  210  is periodically moved or is associated with a vehicle that moves, such as a recreational vehicle, the location information may be associated with parcel box  210  such that the location of parcel box  210  can be determined at the time of delivery or shortly before the time of delivery. In this way, someone who is moving about periodically in a recreational vehicle can place an order and still expect to have their parcel delivered even though they have relocated since the order was placed. A delivery service and/or portable delivery computer  182  may request the current location of parcel box  210  through one or more of network  160  and wireless network  150  shortly before delivery such that the delivery location can be determined/updated in real-time, or in near real-time. As more advanced delivery systems, such as drone delivery systems, are designed and implemented, dynamic location updates of the type described herein may even facilitate delivery to mobile vehicles and watercraft. 
         [0043]    In yet another use of location information, location system  224  may transmit location information if parcel box  210  is stolen, moved without authorization, relocated without authorization, or misplaced. The location information may be transmitted over wireless network  150  and/or another communication network to assist in the recovery of parcel box  210  and/or its contents. 
         [0044]    Continuing with the security features, parcel box  210  may include alarm system  242  that provides alerts when parcel box  210  is removed, disturbed, stolen, relocated without authorization, is not operating properly, and/or is tampered with. Alarm system  242  may provide visual alarms, audible alarms, and/or may provide alarm notifications to one or more of computing device  122 , personal electronic device  130 , parcel box management server  140 , and/or portable delivery computer  182 . In some cases, an alert from alarm system  242  may cause a delivery to be stopped, returned, or rerouted. This may be particularly important when the parcel includes a sensitive item that will be damaged without cooling or heating and/or a high value item for which security is a necessity. In some cases, parcel box  210  may provide a notification when power storage device(s)  222  are low on charge and/or not operating properly. 
         [0045]    Parcel box  210  may also include scale  233  for determining a weight of one or more parcels inside parcel box  210 . The determined weight may be transmitted, using communication module  212  and electrical circuitry  254 , to one or more other devices. A recipient of the parcel can be made aware of the weight of the parcel before physically retrieving the parcel. The weight maybe useful in helping determine the content of the parcel and or remotely determining if the expected objects are inside the parcel. 
         [0046]    In some cases, the weight determined by parcel box  210  using scale  233  may be compared to a weight of the parcel when it left warehouse  195  to determine if the parcel has been tampered with, emptied, and/or had items removed during the shipping process. The weight may be transmitted to or made available to any of computing device  122 , personal electronic device  130 , portable delivery computer  182 , warehouse  195 , seller  190 , and/or parcel box management server  140 . In some cases, an alert may be automatically generated if the weight is not within an expected range when the parcel is placed in parcel box  210 . The expected weight information may be retrieved or received by parcel box  210  prior to or at the time of arrival of the parcel. 
         [0047]    Parcel box  210  may also include lighting  231 . Lighting  231  may include light generating devices inside of parcel box  210  and/or outside of parcel box  210 . Light generating devices may include light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent lights, and/or fluorescing elements. Internal lighting may help a delivery person and/or parcel recipient with handling of a parcel when it is dark. External lighting may assist generally with safety when moving around parcel box  210  and/or may generally provide an accent, yard, or landscaping lighting purpose. Any external lighting may also serve to provide a quick visual indication of a status of parcel box  210  such as whether it is operating correctly, whether it is empty, whether it contains a parcel, whether it partially full, whether it is completely full, whether it has space available, and/or other status conditions. 
         [0048]    Lighting  231  may also include one or more visual indicators to indicate to an owner and/or to a parcel delivery/pickup person that a parcel is currently inside parcel box  210 . In some configurations, owners and delivery company personnel maybe notified using a variety of indicators or alert mechanisms. In some configurations, visual indications or alerts may be accompanied by one or more electronic messages transmitted to one or more of the electronic devices or computer systems discussed herein. In another example, lighting  231  and/or one or more electronic messages may be used to indicate to a delivery person that parcel box  210  is not currently receiving parcels or packages because the owner is out of town, because parcel box  210  is full, and/or because parcel box  210  is not operating correctly. 
         [0049]    Parcel box  210  may also contain one or more camera(s)  235  and/or other types of optical capture devices or data capture devices. One of camera(s)  235  may be directed inward to provide images or video of the contents of parcel box  210 . In this way an owner of parcel box  210  can check the contents from virtually any location. Camera(s)  235  may also contain an outward facing camera that provides images or video of anyone who opens or accesses parcel box  210 . An outward camera may also be used as part of an access control system for parcel box  210 . The camera may be used for an iris scan, a fingerprint scan, an identification badge scan, or other data input process for purposes of permitting opening of parcel box  210 . Various access criteria can be established and parcel box  210  can be opened, or may automatically open, when data captured by the camera matches or satisfies an access criteria. In this way, parcel box  210  may keep a record of everyone who has accessed it. 
         [0050]    Further, one or more cameras or optical capture devices may be used to provide a real time image of someone who is requesting access to parcel box  210 . In other words, someone may approach parcel box  210 , request access using user interface  214 , and an image of that person may be transmitted to an owner/operator of parcel box  210  to allow the owner/operator to determine if he/she wishes to remotely unlock or provide access to parcel box  210  for the person captured in the image or video. This information may be transferred to a smartphone or computer of the owner/operator of parcel box  210 . In addition, one or more of camera(s) may be used to capture an image or video of anyone who attempts to access parcel box  210  or disturbs parcel box  210 . 
         [0051]    In some cases, parcel box  210  may also include a microphone and/or a speaker. The microphone and/or speaker may enable live communication between a delivery person at parcel box  210  and an owner/operator of parcel box  210 . The communication may be routed to the owner/operator through a call to personal electronic device  130 , communication device  124 , and/or computing device  122 . In some cases, this communication may make use of network  160  and/or wireless network  150 . 
         [0052]    Parcel box  210  may include a unique identifier, such as identifier  215 . Identifier  215  may be used to identify parcel box  210  for purposes of delivery, similar to the way a street address is traditionally used. However, as described herein, parcel box  210  may be relocated or movable such that the deliveries can continue even though it has been moved. Identifier  215  serves as the unique, constant identifier for parcel box  210  even though its location may change. Identifier  215  may exist and/or be used in a number of ways including, but not limited to: identifier  215  may be electronically stored in electrical circuitry  254 , identifier  215  may be electronically transmitted to other devices using one or more of electrical circuitry  254  and communication module  212 , identifier  215  may be periodically electronically transmitted from parcel box  210  in the form of a beacon signal, and/or identifier  215  may be visible on parcel box  210  in human readable form. Further, identifier  215  may be visible inside and/or outside parcel box  210  in a machine readable form such as a bar code, a one-dimensional barcode, a 2-dimensional bar code, a 3-dimensional bar code, a QR code, and/or another optical machine readable format. In other examples, identifier  210  may be electronically transmitted to another electronic device that is in close proximity, such as using RFID techniques and/or NFC techniques. In some cases, this information may be transmitted to portable delivery computer  182  when it is at or near parcel box  210  for purposes of a delivery or pick up. 
         [0053]    Parcel Box  210  may also include scanner  241  which may include components for optically and/or electronically reading or capturing information from a parcel and/or from another device such as portable delivery computer  182 . Scanner  241  may include a bar code scanner for reading one or more machine readable codes or identifiers such as a bar code, a one one-dimensional barcode, a 2-dimensional bar code, a 3-dimensional bar code, a QR code, and/or another optical machine readable format. The information may be read from the outside of one or more parcels that are inside parcel box  210 , being placed into parcel box  210 , and/or being removed from parcel box  210 . In some cases, scanner  241  may be referred to as a parcel reader, a parcel reading device, and/or a parcel input device. 
         [0054]    In some cases, scanner  241  may also electronically read information from one or more parcels, objects, and/or devices. Scanner  241 , alone or in conjunction with communication module  212 , may include including components for electronically reading information from one or more parcels that are inside parcel box  210 , being placed into parcel box  210 , and/or being removed from parcel box  210 . Further, scanner  241  may also be used for electronically reading other information such as an identifier of delivery vehicle  180 , an identifier of portable delivery computer  182 , and/or an identifier on a badge or other credentials of a person placing a parcel into or removing a parcel from parcel box  210 . Scanner  241  may utilize near field or low power electronic communication technologies or formats such as, for example, RFID, NFC, Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® Lower Energy, Bluetooth® Smart, and/or a proprietary communication technology or format, such as Google® Weave™. In some cases, scanner  241  may include a camera for capturing images, pictures, and/or video of a parcel inside parcel box  210 . In some cases, scanner  241  may also be used to communicate with other electronic devices which may sometimes be in close proximity to parcel box  210 . 
         [0055]    In some examples, scanner  241  may also be used for reading other information such as an identifier of delivery vehicle  180 , an identifier of portable delivery computer  182 , and/or an identifier on a badge or other credentials of a person placing a parcel into or removing a parcel from parcel box  210 . 
         [0056]    Parcel box  210  may also be compatible with and/or interface to home automation systems, home security systems, alarm systems, building automation systems, building security systems, and/or HVAC systems. Parcel box  210  may also interface to or be compatible with one or more Internet-of-things protocols and/or home automation communication formats, protocols, or systems including Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® Low Energy, Bluetooth® Smart, Zigbee®, Z-Wave®, Weave™, Thread, 6LoWPAN, WiFi, NFC, RFID, ANT, ANT+, IEEE 802.15.4, Sigfox®, Neul®, LoRaWAN®, and/or others, including combinations thereof. In some cases, parcel box  210  may conduct peer-to-peer communication with other items or systems that are within or interface to an automated home or business ecosystem. Parcel box  210  may also use or be compatible with one or more wireless power transfer standards. 
         [0057]    Parcel box  210  may also include attachment mechanism(s)  252 . Attachment mechanism(s)  252  may include one or more attachment mechanisms for permanently, semi-permanently, and/or temporarily attaching or securing parcel box  210  to another object for security purposes. The other object may be a structure, a building, a home, a wall, a fence, a vehicle, a boat, a tree, the ground, and/or a foundation. Attachment mechanism(s)  252  may include one or more mounting components or mechanical interfaces, features, or components for attaching parcel box  210  to the other object(s). Attachment mechanism(s)  252  may be configured and/or adapted to make it difficult to remove parcel box  210  from the object, to deter theft and/or vandalism, and/or to improve security of parcel box  210  and its contents. In some cases, attachment mechanism(s)  252  may include an auger or spikes for securing parcel box  210  to the ground. 
         [0058]    Attachment mechanism(s)  252  may also include separate mounting components which are permanently mounted to a structure or object. Parcel box  210  can then be removably mounted or attached to the separate mounting components. This configuration allows parcel box  210  to more readily be relocated or periodically moved between multiple locations. In one example, the separate mounting components may be a frame or structure that is built into or attached to a structure during construction with parcel box  210  being attached after construction is complete. This configuration provides a very secure connection because it can be attached to or engaged with structural elements of the building without parcel box  210  being present during the construction process and without parcel box  210  be in the way during construction or susceptible to damage during construction. A frame or separate mounting components of this type may be included as part of the construction process in order to optionally give the property owner of easily adding parcel box  210  at some point later in time. 
         [0059]    In some cases, attachment mechanism(s)  252  may be mounted in a wall and/or may be interface to a mounting frame that can be included in the wall such that parcel box  210 , and/or portions thereof, are accessible from both sides of the wall. In one example, an outside surface of parcel box  210  may be accessible at the outside wall of a structure to allow a delivery personnel and/or vehicles to access it from a door or panel positioned outside the structure to place or remove parcels. At the same time, an owner or occupant of the structure may access parcel box  210  from a door or panel that faces inside the structure. In this way, a residential home owner can install parcel box  210  in a wall of the home, or in the wall of a garage of the home, such that parcel deliveries can be picked up without going outside the home. 
         [0060]    In a structure mounted configuration, parcel box  210  may make use of direct electrical connections through external electrical interface  213  to line power (such as 110 VAC or 220 VAC) and/or to a wired network connection. In this type of installation, parcel box  210  may also selectively make use of outside air and/or conditioned air from inside the structure to better maintain a preferred temperature environment inside parcel box  210 , if any. In some configurations, one or more storage cavities of parcel box  210  may be primarily open to the inside of the structure such that there is free airflow to the one or more cavities and/or such that the one or more cavities are visible from inside the structure. In a further variation, one or more bars or screens may be included to allow this type of access from inside the structure while still prohibiting someone from climbing through parcel box  210  into the structure and/or to prohibit pushing a parcel or other object all the way through parcel box  210  into the structure. 
         [0061]    In some configurations, parcel box  210  may interface with a garage door opener even though it may not be physically attached to the garage or a garage wall. In one example, parcel box  210  may be capable of transmitting signals to open/close a garage door in case a parcel being delivered is too large to fit in parcel box  210 . In one example, the garage control could be activated from inside parcel box  210  thereby only permitting one who was able to access/unlock parcel box  210  to open the garage door. In another example, a code may need to be entered at parcel box  210  in order to open the garage door. 
         [0062]    Parcel box  210  may also include delivery vehicle interface  256 . Delivery vehicle interface  256  may include any types of mechanical and/or electrical interfaces for interfacing to automated or semi-automated delivery vehicle. In one example, delivery vehicle  180  may have mechanical features for automatically, semi-automatically, and/or robotically transferring a parcel from the delivery vehicle to parcel box  210 . Parcel box  210  may be placed in proximity to a road, driveway, or curb such that delivery vehicle  180  can be positioned or stopped at a curb to allow it to interface to delivery vehicle interface  256  for delivery or pick up of a parcel. Delivery vehicle interface  256  may also include an electrical interface which communicates with delivery vehicle  180 , through a wired interconnect or wirelessly, when a parcel transfer is taking place. These communication elements may be included in or separate from communication module  212 . 
         [0063]    In some cases, automated transfer of the parcel may take place for purposes of efficiency thereby relieving a vehicle driver of having to handle parcels or packages and/or get out of delivery vehicle  180 . In other cases, delivery vehicle  180  may be an automated and/or driverless vehicle that must transfer parcels or packages to parcel box  210  in an automated fashion and conduct communications with parcel box  210  automatically because there is no driver or attendant present. 
         [0064]    In further examples, delivery vehicle  180  may be a drone or other small aircraft. In this situation, delivery vehicle interface  256  may include electromechanical components or features for receiving the parcel from the drone and/or transferring a parcel to the drone. The drone may communicate with parcel box  210  wirelessly using communication module  212  or through a separate communication module configured for communication with the drone. In some cases, identifier  215  may send out a signal to the drone that includes identifying information for parcel box  210  and/or location information to assist in guiding the drone to parcel box  210 . In some cases, the signal transmitted by parcel box  210  may be referred to as a drone beacon. Delivery vehicle interface  256  may also include a landing area for the drone. Because drones may be relatively small and have relatively short ranges, delivery vehicle interface  256  may also include features for supplying power to the drone from power storage device(s)  222  and/or from line power for purposes of recharging the drone, thereby extending the drone&#39;s range. 
         [0065]    Parcel box  210  may also include features or have options for providing power to other types of delivery vehicles as well. In some cases, the delivered power and/or the service of providing the power from parcel box  210  to the drone, or another type of delivery vehicle, may offset a portion of the cost of the parcel and/or the cost of the delivery of the parcel. Other financial arrangements, compensation methods, or business models are possible with respect to providing power to delivery vehicles and/or to other parties. 
         [0066]      FIG. 3  illustrates installed parcel box  310  in a use environment  300 . Parcel box  310  is an example of parcel box  110  and/or parcel box  210  and may include any of the elements, features, functions, components, modules, and/or characteristics of parcel box  110  and/or parcel box  210 . Parcel box  310  is associated with structure  120  and is installed or positioned near a street  388  which runs near structure  120 . Parcel box  310  is installed or positioned near street  388  for convenience of a delivery person and/or for access by an automated, driverless delivery or pickup vehicle. As described in other examples herein, parcel box  310  may also be mounted in, on, or to structure  120 . 
         [0067]    Parcel box  310  may be constructed of any material or combination of materials, such as metals or plastics, to form a sturdy and durable enclosure. Parcel box  310  may have an outer housing that is designed to be weather resistant, weather proof, water resistant, water proof, snow resistant, snow proof, rain resistant, rain proof, dust resistant, dust proof, dirt resistant, dirt proof, and/or resistant to vandalism or theft. Parcel box  310  may include gaskets, seals, plugs, or covers around or over various openings or doors for making parcel box  310  resilient against these elements and forces, to protect parcels which may be inside parcel box  310 , and to protect internal components of parcel box  310 . Parcel box  310  may also include structural elements, frame elements, and/or a durable housing or shell making it resilient against impacts, external forces, ultraviolet damage, and/or vandalism. Some or all of the walls of parcel box  310  may include insulation to assist in maintaining a preferred temperature or temperature range inside parcel box  310 . Insulation may be provided using traditional insulating materials or using other methods, such as vacuum panels. 
         [0068]    Parcel box  310  may have a color that is chosen to coordinate with a nearby structure. Parcel box  310  may have a color that is chosen to blend in with the landscape. Parcel box  310  may have a universal or standard color which makes it easier for a delivery person to locate because they are always looking for the same color. Parcel box  310  may have reflective characteristics. Parcel box  310  may have a color that indicates a characteristic of the parcel box, such as different colors for different capacity parcel boxes. The color of parcel box  310  may be accomplished through painting, coating, anodizing, powder coating, and/or adding one or more pigments to a plastic resin used to make parcel box  310 . 
         [0069]    Parcel box  310  includes a door  359  for placing a parcel into or removing a parcel from parcel box  310 . Although only one door  359  is illustrated, parcel box  310  may include multiple doors. In some configurations, parcel box  310  may include a door, opening, hatch, or chute on a top surface of parcel box  310  to better accommodate delivery from a flying delivery vehicle, such as a drone, which may land on the top surface of parcel box  310  and/or may deliver a parcel from above parcel box  310 . 
         [0070]    Door  359  may be unlocked and/or opened electronically and/or automatically using any of the techniques described herein. Parcel box  310  may be configured or operated such that door  359  may be opened by any of a plurality of parcel carriers, parcel delivery entities, and/or parcel pickup entities. In this way, parcel box  310  and/or the associated operation platforms may be carrier agnostic and/or carrier independent and may include a software interface that directly communicates with and exchanges data with computer systems of multiple carriers. Beneficially, the owner or user of parcel box  310  can receive or send parcels with a variety of these carriers or entities in a secure manner when the owner or user is not present, is on vacation, is unavailable, and/or does not want to be disturbed. These deliveries may also occur without subjecting the parcel(s) to risks associated with theft or exposure to the elements. Parcel box  310  also provides benefits to parcel carriers including: reduction of unsuccessful deliveries, reduction of redeliveries, improved efficiency, reduction in delivery distance from street, reduction in per-stop delivery time, reduction in risk of leaving unsecured parcels, improved customer satisfaction, automated interfaces for documenting/recording delivery or pickup of parcels, and/or improved interfaces for driverless and/or unmanned delivery vehicles. 
         [0071]    In some cases, portable delivery computer  182  may begin communicating with parcel box  310  when it is within a designated proximity. This communication may automatically establish permission to access the box such that door  359  opens before, or just as, a delivery person is approaching in order to make their delivery more efficient and/or to make it easier for him or her to complete the task with full hands. In other cases, the carrier may use a fob, RFID device, NFC device, keypad, badge or other device for opening door  359 . 
         [0072]    In some cases, parcel box  310  may also include alternate, secure means of depositing a parcel. In one example, parcel box  310  may include a letter slot that allows thin parcels to be inserted without the ability to reach inside parcel box  310  through the slot or remove items through the slot. In another example, parcel box  310  may include a mechanical deposit mechanism, such as a drum or barrel mechanism, that allows a delivery person to put the parcel in and rotate or otherwise mechanically actuate the mechanism to release the parcel or package to the inside cavity of parcel box  310  without ever giving the delivery person access to the interior of parcel box  310 . This type of secure insert mechanism allows an item to be put into the container without a key or code but keeps the item secure once it is inside. This feature may also be implemented in other ways, such as with a collapsing shelf that drops the item into a compartment when a door is closed. 
         [0073]    As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , parcel box  310  also includes user interface  214 , camera(s)  235 , and solar panel(s)  221 . However, parcel box  310  may also include any of the other components, elements, or modules of parcel box  110  of  FIG. 1 or 210  of  FIG. 2 . Further, parcel box  310  may include hardware and/or software components for operating or performing the functions of parcel box  110  described with respect to operating environment  100  of  FIG. 1 . 
         [0074]    Parcel box  310  may be manufactured and/or configured in a variety of sizes to accommodate a variety of parcel sizes. In some cases, parcel box  310  may be configured as a modular system wherein parcel storage compartments of various numbers and sizes may be added to or removed from parcel box  310  in a modular fashion without having to duplicate all of the modules illustrated in  FIG. 2 . In other words, multiple storage compartments may share use of any of the functional elements or modules of  FIG. 2 . 
         [0075]    In some cases, parcel box  310  may be constructed of panels that fold down to a flat, or nearly flat, configuration for purposes of reducing shipping cost and/or storage space. When assembling, the panels fold out to form parcel box  310 . In some cases, compartments of various sizes may each be compatible with or include the same locking mechanism, such as locking system  225 . 
         [0076]    Plastic components of parcel box  310  may be manufactured or molded using one or more of a variety of molding techniques including: injection molding, blow molding, compression molding, gas assist molding, rotational molding, structural foam molding, and/or thermoforming. 
         [0077]    The examples which follow describe various scenarios, modes of operation, and configurations of a parcel box and/or a parcel box operating environment. The examples may be applicable to any of parcel box  110 , parcel box  210 , parcel box  310 , operating environment  100 , operating environment  300 , and/or any of the other elements of operating environment  100  or operating environment  300 . The features described in the following examples are described in terms of a ‘system’ as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The described functions may be performed by or distributed across any of the devices and/or parties illustrated in  FIG. 1 or 3 , including, in part, by software or software applications running on one or more of the devices. The described functions are not intended to be limited to use on or performance by any particular device. 
         [0078]    In one example, a user may be able to modify deliveries based on a provided vacation or travel schedule. The system may limit parcel deliveries during these time periods or for portions of these time periods. The following actions may take place based on a vacation schedule or travel schedule: hold instructions transmitted to the seller, warehouse, and or shipper, limiting shipments during the period to certain types of non-perishable shipments, activating indicators on the parcel box, changing heating or cooling settings on the parcel box to better preserve any parcels that are present, notifying a delivery driver before they arrive at the parcel box, establishing permissions for a friend, neighbor, or agent to access the parcel box during this period and/or establishing automatic notifications or message forwarding to the friend, neighbor, or agent for the period. 
         [0079]    In another example, single or limited use codes may be used to allow others limited access to the parcel box. A user may establish a one-time use code for a friend who needs to drop off an item. Similarly, a user may establish a permission that lets someone access the parcel box at a certain frequency and/or only during certain windows of time (such as permission to deliver a Sunday newspaper only once per week, only on Sunday, and/or only between the hours 4 AM and 8 AM). In another example, an access code may only work on certain doors or compartments of a parcel box. 
         [0080]    In another example, access to the parcel box may be limited based on the parcel and/or order. For example, all members of a family may generally have access or may have access by default. However, the user may have the ability to limit opening of the parcel box when the parcel is known to contain alcohol or has been shipped from a supplier of alcohol. Access may be limited such that the family&#39;s children cannot open the parcel box under those circumstances. Implementation of this feature is particularly convenient when the parcel box is opened using a biometric indicator and/or from a smartphone that is known to belong to a particular individual. In a further example, a user may be able to limit access if the parcel is a gift and the user does not want certain members of the family to see the gift or gift box when it arrives. These types of controlled access preferences can be set up in the system by a user and then activated when information from portable delivery computer  180  and/or scanner  241  indicates those parcel(s) are present. 
         [0081]    In another variation, a user may be able to automatically enable access to the parcel box for a friend or neighbor. The user may be able to establish this access remotely. The friend or neighbor may access the parcel box using a smartphone, a software app, and/or an interface on the parcel box such as a keypad or a fingerprint scanner. 
         [0082]    In another example, a parcel box may contain an internal handle, release, or lever for allowing someone who has been trapped inside the parcel box to release a door to get out. The handle, release, or lever may glow, may be internally lit, or may be lit by a light that is elsewhere inside the cavity such that the handle, release or lever can be seen in dark conditions. 
         [0083]    In another example, a parcel box that is periodically relocated may have wheels making it easier to move. Relocating the parcel box may be desirable during periods of extended travel or vacation when the parcel box is moved or in situations where the parcel box is periodically moved between two or more locations. 
         [0084]    In another example, a computer system of a delivery service may electronically check or query the status of a parcel box at a delivery location using one or more networks before a parcel is loaded onto the delivery vehicle. If the computer system determines that the parcel box is available, empty or partially empty, the parcel is loaded onto the delivery vehicle for delivery. If the parcel box is not available, the parcel is not loaded onto the delivery vehicle thereby avoiding the costs associated with a failed delivery attempt. The parcel box may not be available for a number of reasons including: the owner is on vacation and/or has indicated he or she does not want to receive parcels at this time, the parcel box is currently full, and/or the parcel box is not operating properly. The communication may also provide information about the delivery to the parcel box, including an estimated time of the delivery and/or information about any temperature preferences or requirements. This may provide the parcel box the necessary time to start cooling and/or heating systems to achieve those temperatures or achieve a specified temperature range. 
         [0085]    In some cases, electrical circuitry of the parcel box may calculate a start time to start the cooling and/or heating system in order to achieve the preferred air temperature or air temperature range inside the parcel box at or before the estimated delivery time. The computer system of the delivery service may check or query the status of the parcel box by communicating with the parcel box directly and/or it may request the information from a parcel box management server or website accessible by the owner of the parcel box and/or the parcel box. 
         [0086]    In another example, a delivery vehicle delivering a parcel to a parcel box may wirelessly communicate with the parcel box prior to arriving at the parcel box. The communication may occur from a device that is part of the vehicle and/or from a portable computing device carried by a driver of the vehicle. The communication may request the status of the parcel box prior to arriving at the parcel box in order to save the delivery driver/vehicle time if the parcel box is not available. The communication may also prepare the parcel box for the delivery by checking one or more other systems to determine if the parcel is expected, retrieve information about the parcel, and/or unlock the parcel box as the vehicle and/or delivery person is approaching the parcel box in order to save time. 
         [0087]    In another example, an external optical device or scanner on the parcel box may be used to scan or capture information that permits access to the parcel box by the delivery person. The scanned or captured information may include a picture of the delivery person, a scan of an identification badge of the delivery person, electronically reading an identification badge or device of the delivery person or vehicle, reading an electronic fob of the delivery person or vehicle, a biometric scan of the driver, a scan of a physical or electronic tag on the parcel. In some cases, the owner of the parcel box may limit access for a particular company. The access may be limited to a particular day, a particular window of time, and/or a one-time use. 
         [0088]    In some cases, the parcel box may verify delivery information before access is provided to the parcel box. For example, when information is received from the delivery vehicle prior to arrival and/or when a parcel is scanned by the external scanning device, that information may be validated against expected deliveries by communicating with one or more other systems. Whether access to the parcel box is provided may depend upon whether the parcel box can validate the expected delivery from these one or more other systems. In some cases, if a parcel is not expected and/or does not match expected delivery information, the parcel box may contact the owner in real time, or near real time, to allow the owner to make a determination as to whether access can be provided. The communication with the owner may include video and/or audio communication. In some cases, the communication may include an audio and/or video call to a personal electronic device of the owner which then gives the owner the option of opening or providing access to the parcel box for the delivery. 
         [0089]    In another example, a parcel box may electronically and/or optically read a label or tag of a parcel inside the parcel box. The label or tag may include one or more pieces of information including: an identification of the shipment, a tracking number, an identity of the shipper, an identity of the shipping company, contents of the parcel, an expected weight of the parcel, and/or temperature or storage requirements of the parcel. Based on the information read from the parcel by the parcel box, the parcel box may take one or more actions including: notifying an owner of the presence of the parcel, detecting delivery of the parcel, notifying a designated agent of the parcel, notifying the owner of the content of the parcel, transmitting a message indicating arrival of the parcel, verifying or retrieving information about the parcel with one or more other systems, sending a notification based on the information retrieved from the one or more other systems, setting a temperature of the parcel box for the parcel, setting a status indicator on the outside of the parcel box, communicating information to a parcel box management server or website, transmitting an image of the parcel to an owner, operator, or agent of the parcel box, determining if the actual parcel weight is within an expected range based on weight information read from the parcel or from another system, communicating with a computer system of the shipper or seller, transmitting a message indicating receipt of the parcel, and/or performing one or more other actions based on preferences or configurations set by the owner, operator, or agent of the parcel box. 
         [0090]    In a further example, an internal optical device, scanning device, and/or camera may track when a parcel is removed from the parcel box. Removal of the parcel may trigger messages or alerts to one or more parties including the shipper, the seller, and/or the owner, operator, or agent of the parcel box. In this way, the seller or shipper may be able to determine when the recipient has actually removed the parcel from the parcel box. This information may be exchanged through an automated transfer of information from the parcel box to a computer system of the seller or the shipper through a software interface. In addition, an external camera on the parcel box may also be configured to capture an image or video of the person removing the parcel from the parcel box. 
         [0091]    In another example, a parcel box may keep track of how long a parcel has been present in the parcel box and may periodically send reminders or alerts to the owner, operator, and/or designated agent of the parcel box to remind them that a parcel is there to be removed. The reminder may be an email message, a text message, a message to a dedicated software app, a voice call, and/or a voicemail message and may be sent to or through any one or more of the electronic, computing, or network devices described herein. 
         [0092]    While many of the examples herein are described with respect to delivery of a parcel to a parcel box, the apparatuses, methods, systems, features, functions, techniques, and improvements may also be applicable to the sending of parcels. In other words, an owner, operator, or agent of a parcel box may use the parcel box to temporarily store parcel(s) for pick up by a driver or a vehicle of a shipping or courier service. The parcel box may perform communication with any of the devices or systems described herein for purposes of facilitating pick up of the parcel from the parcel box and/or shipping of the parcel. In some configurations, a parcel box may have separate compartments, sections, and/or doors for incoming parcels and outgoing parcels. 
         [0093]    Any of the techniques, improvements, features, functions, or processes described herein may be implemented in the form of a method. The method may be performed by one or more computer processors or systems along with one or more of the devices, components, elements, and/or modules described herein. The method(s) may be performed, at least in part, by executing non-transitory computer-executable software instructions that are stored in one or more non-transitory memory devices or systems. 
         [0094]    Any of the techniques, improvements, features, functions, or processes described herein may be implemented in the form of a system. The system may include any combination of the devices, components, elements, and/or modules. Any of the devices, components, elements, and/or modules may also utilize the software platforms, software, and/or software tools described herein. 
         [0095]    The techniques, elements, components, methods, and steps described herein are meant to exemplify some types of possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned examples limit the scope of the invention, as they are only exemplary embodiments. 
         [0096]    The phrases “in some embodiments,” “according to some embodiments,” “in the embodiments shown,” “in other embodiments,” “in some examples,” “on other examples,” “in some cases,” “in some situations,” “in one configuration,” “in another configuration,” and the like generally mean that the particular technique, feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and/or may be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments or to different embodiments. 
         [0097]    The foregoing disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and description. Other modifications and variations may be possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments described in the foregoing disclosure were chosen to explain the principles of the concept and its practical application to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention. It is intended that the claims be construed to include other alternative embodiments of the invention except as limited by the prior art.

Technology Category: 5