Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a frame for an opening in a wall of a closed space, for forming an entrance opening between the closed space and a space outside the closed space. The frame comprises a first place for installation, provided for fastening a door which limits passage to the closed space via the entrance opening, in said first place for installation so that the door is configured to be placeable in at least a first position to prevent passage through the entrance opening, and a second position to allow passage through the entrance opening; and a second place for installation, adjacent to the first place for installation. The invention further relates to a system for transmission of goods, and a method for installing a system for transmission of goods.

Background of the invention

The development of information society brings changes in a wide range of areas, one relating to increasing online shopping of goods and services (hereinafter product). Online purchases can now be delivered in a variety of ways to persons or companies (hereinbelow customer) ordering a product. Normally, it is assumed that the customer is present to receive the goods, or the customer receives the goods from a post office, automated parcel lockers, or a corresponding place. It is an increasing wish of customers to have the products ordered on the web delivered without problems irrespective of time and date (24/7) to a given address; consequently, the delivery and reception of products relating to online shopping is significantly increasing. Furthermore, in the future, products may be increasingly transmitted in the other direction as well, that is, from the customer to the deliverer, or from the customer to the deliverer and back to the customer.

In such a business environment of delivering and picking up of products, a great role is played by the orders of products (hereinbelow transactions), the smooth flow of logistics, security, traceability, flexibility, and easy reception. The goods relating to the products are delivered in parcels, and in most cases their physical size does not enable them to be delivered via door mail slots. Because of this, the customer is always required to be present and to open the door in order to receive the product. This requirement often makes the recep- tion more difficult, causing inefficiency and rearrangements as well as costs for the deliverer, and also arrangements for the customer to be present.

Several problems are also involved in openings possibly made in walls for the delivery of goods. For example, an opening in a wall may be placed in, for example, a kitchen, a bedroom, or a living room. Such an opening does not have a separate address, such as the front door, so that an opening in a wall cannot be given as an address for delivery of goods.

Building regulations include specifications relating to e.g. safety, fire resistance rating, soundproofing, compactness of structures, width of free passage, and safety against burglary. For example, specific regulations and guidelines are provided for the structure of a front door and the method of installing it in an entrance opening. Consequently, one problem is how to install the front door of a closed space and a device for transmission of goods in the most cost- efficient way and simultaneously reproducibly to observe the quality and building regulations in a new building or in a building being renovated.

The technical problem is thus to create a system and a method for installation of two or more components to be connected next to each other (a door and a device for transmission of goods) in the same opening in a wall. The solution has to reproducibly meet the requirements of building regulations and simultaneously be as safe, appropriate and cost-efficient as possible for the constructor and the users. The following list gives some patent publications as examples of prior art: GB2190137, US1581776, US6756879, US7518485, WO0100069, WO2012156659, WO2014154344, and JP2002174061 . Brief summary of the invention

A solution to the above-mentioned problems is a system according to claim 1 , formed by a frame, a door frame, and a device for transmission of goods, wherein the frame, installed in an opening in a wall, is used as a place for installation of the door frame and the device for transmission of goods.

As a solution to the above-presented problems, we present a construction to be installed in an opening for entrance to and exit from a closed space, the construction being formed by a frame to be placed in the opening of the closed space, a door, and a device for transmission of goods. This concept overcomes the need for extra openings in walls of buildings, and the problems involved in them. The device for transmission of goods enables goods to be delivered to and received by a customer and to be picked up from the customer without opening the door to the closed space and without the presence of the customer. The invention makes it possible to solve all the above-mentioned problems in new and renovated buildings. Furthermore, this solution enables the utilization of existing postal addresses. The frame according to the present invention is primarily characterized in that the frame comprises a first vertical element, a second vertical element, a first horizontal element, a second horizontal element, and a frame element for forming a second place for installation next to the first place for installation, a location of the frame element in relation to the first vertical element and the second vertical element being configured to be adjustable, to be fitted to a width of a door frame, whereby the frame is formed by connecting one end of the first horizontal element to one end of the first vertical element, a second end of the first horizontal element to one end of the second vertical element, one end of the second horizontal element to the other end of the first vertical element, and a second end of the second horizontal element to a second end of the second vertical element, for forming a frame-like structure; that the first vertical element, the second vertical element, the first horizontal element, the second horizontal element, and the frame element are made of metal; and the frame further comprising positioning means and locking means for positioning and lock- ing the frame with respect to a wall; and positioning means and locking means for positioning and locking the door frame and a device for transmission of goods with respect to the frame; and that said device for transmission of goods is configured to be installed in connection with the second place for installation, for transmission of goods via the second place for installation between a closed space and a space outside the closed space.

The transmission system according to the present invention is primarily characterized in that the system for transmission of goods comprises a frame according to any of the claims 1 to 6, and a device for transmission of goods. The method according to the present invention is primarily characterized in pushing a door frame against an aligning surface of a first horizontal element of a frame, pushing a frame element against the door frame, fastening the frame element to the frame, installing the door in the door frame, positioning a positioning means at the top of a device for transmission of goods in contact with a counterpart in the first horizontal element until a guide means in a lower part of the device for transmission of goods and a counterpart in a second horizontal element are aligned, and fastening the device for transmission of goods in the frame. Description of the drawings

Fig. 1 shows an example of an installation opening formed in a wall of a building; Figs. 2a to 2g show details of an advantageous frame structure and its components;

Fig. 3a shows a frame according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, comprising one place for installation of a front door and a second place for installation of a device for transmission of goods;

Fig. 3b shows a frame according to Fig. 3a installed in an installation opening in a wall of a building; Figs. 4a to 4c show steps of a method according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention in installing the door frame and the device for transmission of goods in a frame; Fig. 4d shows the installation according to Fig. 4c in a cross-section;

Fig. 5 shows an arrangement for use in connection with a frame according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, for guiding and fastening the device for transmission of goods to the frame, and for preventing the installed device for transmission of goods from moving upwards;

Fig. 6a shows a device for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, in a front view;

Fig. 6b shows the device for transmission of goods, as shown in Fig. 6a, installed in an installation opening in a wall;

Fig. 7a shows an example of a device for transmission of goods, seen from the outside of the closed space;

Fig. 7b shows the device for transmission of goods, as shown in Fig. 7a, installed in a frame structure; Fig. 7c shows a front door installed in a frame structure according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, and a device for transmission of goods connected to the frame structure;

Fig. 7d shows the device for transmission of goods, installed in a frame structure as shown in Fig. 7c, in a side view;

Figs. 8a to 8fshow some solutions for closing the device for transmission of goods according to the invention, seen from above; Figs. 9a to 9c show some covering elements to be used in connection with the second place for installation according to the invention; Fig. 10 shows a covering element and a front door installed in a frame structure according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 1 1 shows a reduced block chart of a data processing device for use in connection with a system for transmission of goods according to the invention; Fig. 12a shows a frame according to Fig. 3a as well as a space for transmission of goods, installed in it, and a front door, seen from the outside;

Fig. 12b shows the frame according to Fig. 3a, as well as a space for trans- mission of goods, installed in it, and a front door, seen from the side of the closed space;

Fig. 13 shows a reduced cross-section, seen from above, of the placement of a system for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention in connection with a wall between a closed space and an outside space;

Figs. 14a to 14c show cross-sectional views of details of an advantageous fastening arrangement for a system for transmission of goods;

Fig. 15a shows a system for transmission of goods according to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, installed in connection with a wall; Figs. 15b to 15e show details of the installation of Fig. 15a; and

Figs. 16a and 16b show an example of using the system for transmitting goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention as a landing platform for an aircraft. Detailed description of the invention

In the following, we will define some terms to be used in this description. A closed compartment or a closed space 4 is a room, an apartment, or e.g. business premises, a storage or another corresponding space which is located in a building, can be locked, and has specified address data and/or coordinates. Typically, the closed space also has a ceiling, and on the other hand, the closed space may also be a construction located on the roof of a building, enabling access to the roof, having walls and a ceiling and access to the interior of the building. A space outside the closed space, in turn, may be an outdoor space, a stair hall of a building, or the like, provided with access to the closed space via one or more wicket doors. A system for transmission of goods, to be installed on the roof of a building, may comprise a landing platform needed for an aircraft, the location being defined by coordinates or another identifier indicating the location.

The frame 9 is a component defining a space for a door 2 and a device 7 for transmission of goods, or alternatively for a covering element 17, in an opening in a wall 4a of a building. The frame 9 comprises at least two places for installation 10a, 10b. The first place for installation 10a is intended for the installation of a door 2, such as the front door of an apartment, and the second place for installation 10b is intended for the installation of a device 7 for transmission of goods. The frame 9 thus connects the door 2 and the device 7 for transmission of goods, closable by a hatch, to the structures of the building.

A frame element 1 1 divides the space of the frame 9 into said two places for installation 10a, 10b. The frame element 1 1 may be, for example, an upright beam.

In an embodiment, the door 2 may be installed in a door frame 2a; a first vertical jamb and a second vertical jamb being provided on the respective side of the door, a lintel being provided above the door, and a sill being possibly provided below the door. A covering element 17 may be installed in the second installation opening 10b of the frame 9, if no device 7 for transmission of goods is installed in the frame 9. The covering element is guided and fitted in place by utilizing guiding surfaces and openings of the frame and the frame element; that is, in the same way as presented in connection with the device for transmission of goods. The covering element 17 may comprise functions removed from the door, such as reception of mail (mail slot), peephole, door phone functions, doorbell equipped with a camera and a display as well as communicating means, interactive advertising and other functions from an automatic device for transmis- sion of goods. The covering element 17 may be easily replaceable with a device 7 for transmission of goods, by using the existing frame 9. The dimensions of the covering element 17 may be modular, as may be the dimensions of the door. The device 7 for transmission of goods refers to a connection equipped with an element limiting access to the device 7 for transmission of goods by a hatch 8 or the like that can be locked at least from the outside, for performing deliveries between the closed space 4 and the outside 5 of the closed space. The device 7 for transmission of goods is installed in the second installation open- ing 10b formed by the frame 9 and the frame element 1 1 . The device 7 for transmission of goods comprises one or more spaces 7a for transmission of goods, and may comprise other functions as well. Placed in the space for transmission of goods, a product has been delivered to the delivery address but has not yet been received in the closed space or correspondingly picked up. This is an essential difference to a mail slot, for example. The device 7 for transmission of goods enables the delivery and picking up of goods without opening the door 2 to the closed space 4. The device 7 for transmission of goods may enable the transmission of goods in the other direction as well, that is, from the closed space 4 to another location, for example for returning goods ordered and received from an electronic marketplace. The dimensions of the device 7 for transmission of goods may be modular, as may be the dimensions of the door.

The space 7a for transmission of goods is formed between electronically and/or manually lockable outer and inner hatches 8, 6 of the device 7 for transmission of goods located in the second place for installation 10b of the frame. The space 7a for transmission of goods is intended for transmission of goods via the second place for installation 10b between the closed space 4 and the space 5 outside the closed space. The space 7a for transmission of goods makes it possible for goods to be delivered to, received at and picked up from a customer without opening the door 2 to the closed space and without the presence of the customer. The space 7a for transmission of goods is a link equipped with a hatch 8 or the like which can be locked from at least the outside, for delivering goods between the closed space 4 and the outside 5 of the closed space.

In addition to the outer and inner hatches 8, 6 of the space 7a for transmission of goods, goods can be transmitted by using storage drawers on the outside and on the inside, or combinations of hatches and drawers. A system 1 for transmission of goods refers to a frame 9 and/or a frame element 1 1 installed in connection with an entrance opening for passage to/from a closed space 4 in a building or an apartment, and a device 7 for transmission of goods installed in its second place for installation 10b. Instead of a device 7 for transmission of goods, it is also possible to install a cover element 17 in the second place for installation in the frame, and to replace it with a device 7 for transmission of goods later on.

Goods and products refer to goods/products or service items intended for being transmitted via the device 7 for transmission of goods.

A customer is a person or a firm ordering the product.

A transmission is the delivery of a product to the device 7 for transmission of goods or the picking up of a product from the device 7 for transmission of goods.

A transaction is the ordering of a product.

A deliverer is a person or a firm, or an actor authorized by them, delivering a product to the device 7 for transmission of goods. A collector is a person or firm, or an actor authorized by them, picking up a product from the device 7 for transmission of goods.

An outer hatch 8 is an outside hatch of the device 7 for transmission of goods, located outside the closed space 4.

An inner hatch 6 is an inside hatch of the device 7 for transmission of goods, placed on the side of the closed space 4. Figure 1 shows an example of an installation opening 18 for a frame, formed in a wall 4a of a building.

Figure 3a shows a frame 9 according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, with at least a first place for installation 10a and a second place for installation 10b. The first place for installation 10a is intended for installing a front door 2, and the second place for installation 10b is intended for installing the device 7 for transmission of goods. In this preferred embodiment, the frame 9 comprises a first vertical element 9a, a second vertical element 9b, a first horizontal element 9c, a second horizontal element 9d, and a frame element 1 1 . The vertical elements 9a, 9b and the horizontal elements 9c, 9d define the extreme edges of the frame 9, and the frame element 1 1 divides the inner circumference of the frame into the first place for installation 10a and the second place for installation 10b. Figure 3b shows a frame according to Fig. 3a installed in an installation opening in a wall of a building.

Figures 2a to 2g show details of an advantageous frame structure and its components. In this embodiment, the frame 9 is formed by connecting one end of the first horizontal element 9c to one end (upper end) of the first vertical element 9a, the other end of the first horizontal element 9c to one end (upper end) of the second vertical element 9b, one end of the second horizontal element 9d to the other end (lower end) of the first vertical element 9a, and the other end of the second horizontal element 9d to the other end (lower end) of the second vertical element 9b. In this way, a substantially rectangular frame 9 is formed. Furthermore, a frame element 1 1 is fitted in this frame structure so that one end (upper end) of the frame element 1 1 is connected to the first horizontal element 9c, and the other end of the frame element 1 1 is connected to the second horizontal element 9d. Figure 2a shows such a frame structure in a so-called exploded view, in which the components are detached.

To form the above described structure, the horizontal and vertical elements 9a to 9d of the frame can be joined by, for example, welding, by means of angle irons, or in another suitable way. One option is to use a longitudinal steel beam (with e.g. a U or L profile cross section) which is bent at the points intended to form the corners of the frame 9. However, it should be taken into the account that indentations have to be provided in the reinforcing walls 9e of the steel beam (e.g. the flanges of a U-beam or the flange of an L-beam), so that the wall 9e will not prevent bending. The walls 9e are used as kinds of aligning means, aligning surfaces, or positioning means.

The frame element 1 1 may be provisionally attached to the frame structure so that it cannot release, for example during transportation and/or installation of the frame 9. After the installation of the frame 9, the frame element 1 1 may be fastened in its final location, as will be described hereinbelow.

Figure 2b shows a possible cross-sectional shape of the first vertical element 9a (point 1-1 in Fig. 2a). It shows that the first vertical element 9a comprises a U-beam and an O-beam (rectangular beam) connected to it. The result is a very rigid structure. The second vertical element 9b and the first horizontal element 9c may also have a cross-sectional shape similar to that shown in Fig. 2b. The flanges or branches 9e of the U-beam constitute locating/positioning means, by which it is relatively easy and quick to align e.g. the door frame 2a and the device 7 for transmission of goods with the frame 7. Figure 2c shows an advantageous cross-section of the second horizontal element 9d (point 5-5 in Fig. 2a). In this embodiment, the U-beam is replaced with a flat board (I-beam), among other things to enable the mounting of a threshold at the door. Figure 2d shows an advantageous cross-section of the frame element 1 1 (point 2-2 in Fig. 2a). The cross-sectional shape of the frame element 1 1 may also be a U-beam, for increasing rigidity. Furthermore, planar flange parts 1 1 a, 1 1 b are provided at both ends of the frame element 1 1 , for attaching the frame element 1 1 to the horizontal elements 9c, 9d of the frame 9. Figure 2e shows a section of a detail of the first vertical element 9a, the second vertical element 9b, the first horizontal element 9c, and the second horizontal element 9d, with respect to the bottom of the U-shape. This bottom 9f of the U-shape is provided with holes 9g which may be circular or linear, as shown in Fig. 2e. These holes are used as aligning means for fastening the elements (e.g. the door frame, the device for transmission of goods) to be connected to the frame, and as through-holes for fastening means, such as screws. Thus, no borings, or the like, need to be made in the different parts of the frame 9 at the installation stage. The edge of a circular hole may be provided with threads, so that the element to be fastened to the frame may be fastened by applying screws in the holes.

Figure 2f shows yet another detail of the vertical elements 9a, 9b. Here, a clamping beam 9h is inserted in the rectangular beam of the vertical element 9a, 9b, to be used as a mounting face for the above-mentioned fastening means. Such a clamping beam may be inserted in the beam of the vertical element 9a, 9b, for example, from the top end which may have been left open. Similar clamping beams may be inserted in the first 9c and second 9d horizontal elements as well. Such a clamping beam may be, for example, a plywood beam or a corresponding longitudinal piece which fits in the rectangular means in the frame 9.

In a vertical and horizontal element 9a to 9d having the shape of a U-profile, however, three aligning surfaces 9e, 9f are available, but it is obvious that the U-beam can be replaced with an L-beam or another piece having typically two or more aligning surfaces.

The material for the different components of the frame 9 is a metal, whereby a structure is formed which is very rigid, dimensionally accurate and, in practice, incombustible. The metal may be steel, aluminium, or the like. If necessary, the frame 9 may be treated with a suitable fire retarding agent. Figure 4c shows a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, installed in an installation opening in a wall; and Fig. 4d shows a cross-section of the system 1 for transmission of goods according to Fig. 4c. The system 1 for transmission of goods may com- prise e.g. an electronic and/or mechanical locking, lighting where necessary, a touch screen, a code reader, a keypad, a microphone, a camera, a motion sensor, condition sensors, a door buzzer button, and/or other relevant functional elements. In redevelopment or reconstruction of an existing building, where applicable, it is possible to leave or make an opening in a wall structure, the width of the opening being equal to or slightly greater than the width of the frame 9. In practice, a suitable clearance is left on the side of the exterior faces of the vertical elements of the frame 9, to eliminate the effects of the installation and movements of the structures possibly caused by thermal expansion. Furthermore, this clearance may be used for the installation of an insulant.

The elements of the system 1 for transmission of goods and its frame 9 may be made of, for example, a metal or another suitable material. The frame and surface structures of the system 1 for transmission of goods may be made of, for example, sheet steel having good cold forming properties, a smooth surface, and guaranteed planeness even after possible laser cutting. Laser cutting enables reproducible dimensional accuracy, precise fittings and joining of elements so that the assembly is quick and optimized (e.g. welding can be mini- mized in the design). The dimensionally accurate elements may be surface coated before the assembly, and upon assembly they can be joined so that they are locked to each other whenever possible, and the joints can be secured by suitable mechanical fastening means. If necessary, the steel sheet may be provided with veneer surfaces, or the like, to achieve a desired appearance.

The structure achieved in this way is modular, strong and rigid; and suitable acoustic or refractory insulators may be used in the structures of the covering elements 17 and the device 7 for transmission of goods, to minimize noise impacts and to increase fire safety. Furthermore, such a structure can be man- ufactured in a cost-effective way in serial production so that it reproducibly meets the building regulations with respect to fire safety, compactness, soundproofing, and safety against burglary. Installed in the opening, the frame 9 according to the invention is a rigid structure which, by means of its shape and position, guides the door, the door frame, and the device 7 for transmission of goods, when installed in the frame, to be substantially transverse and/or parallel to the structures, such as the floor and wall surfaces, of the surrounding building. The frame structure guides the device for transmission of goods to be accurately positioned in the depth direction by gravity when the device is installed (Fig. 15b), and after that, the device for transmission of goods is fixed by preventing it from rising upwards by placing suitable components or expansive material in the space between the upper part of the frame and the device for transmission of goods. The door frame, partly or wholly embedded in a U-profile or another suitable profile and installed in the frame 9, comprising the frame element 1 1 , is protected by the incombustible frame structure, and this contributes to impeding breaking into the closed space, protecting the wooden door frame from fire, and thereby retarding or preventing the expansion of fire.

In the following, we will describe the manufacture of a frame structure according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention in connection with the manufacture of a wall element. The horizontal and vertical elements 9a to 9d of the frame 9 are fastened to each other for achieving a frame-like structure and are placed in a casting mould, in a desired location and position with respect to the wall element to be cast, or the frame 9 is assembled in the casting mould for the wall element. Being a rigid structure, the frame reinforces the structure of the element and the opening. Following this, the wall element is cast of concrete. After the concrete has dried, the frame 9 is permanently fas- tened to the wall element. Such an assembly of wall elements can be easily implemented in serial production, whereby relatively short turnaround times can be achieved, and the frame 9 is ready installed. It is noted that the frame element 1 1 may also be provisionally fastened to the frame 9, either before or after casting, before the wall element is transported to the construction site. This frame element 1 1 may support the frame structure e.g. during transportation, and prevent the bending of the second (lower) horizontal element 9d. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the outer circumference of the frame 9 is encircled by a profile, typically a U-shaped piece with guide surfaces (e.g. 3 surfaces in a U-beam). The frame 9 is a rigid and dimension- ally accurate structure, and the profile on its outer circumference can be used to guide the frame 9 accurately to its position with respect to the structure of the casting mould and possible aligning means. The frame increases the strength of the cast structure around the opening in the wall 4a, and this is why it is accurately guided to its position in the casting mould, which typically requires aligning means in the mould.

After the wall element has been mounted on site, the door frame 2 can be installed in the frame 9. This is illustrated in Fig. 4a. Before this, it may be necessary to move the frame element 1 1 in the horizontal direction (arrow to the left in Fig. 4a), if the distance between the frame element 1 1 and the first vertical element 9a is shorter than the width of the door frame. The door frame is installed, for example, by inserting the lintel of the door frame in the U-beam of the first horizontal element 9c of the frame, and then inserting one vertical jamb, namely the jamb coming against the fist vertical element 9a of the frame 9, in the U-beam of this first vertical element 9a. These U-profile forms are thus used as aligning means for the door frame. When the door frame is in place, it can be fastened e.g. by applying screws through said vertical jamb of said door frame, at holes in the first vertical element 9a of the frame, into a fastening member 9h within the first vertical element 9a of the frame, such as a plywood beam, a wooden beam, a wood composite beam, or the like (Fig. 2f), or if such a fastening beam 9h is not used, applying the screws into possible threads in the holes in the first vertical element 9a of the frame. In the same way, the top of the door frame is fastened at the holes in the first horizontal element 9c to a beam within the first horizontal element 9c of the frame, or if such a beam is not used, the screws are applied into possible threads in the holes in the first vertical element 9a of the frame.

After fastening the door frame 2a, the frame element 1 1 is positioned against the first vertical element 9a of the door frame (arrow to the right in Fig. 4b). The frame element 1 1 may be fastened to the horizontal elements 9c, 9d of the frame 9 by means of, for example, flange parts 1 1 a, 1 1 b provided at the upper and lower ends of the frame element. The second vertical jamb can be fastened to the frame element from the side of the second installation opening.

Fastening the door frame and the frame element is followed by installing the door and securing its appropriate functioning. After that, the device 7 for transmission of goods can be fitted in the second place for installation (Fig. 4b). It may be installed, for example, by pushing the device 7 for transmission of goods towards the closed space (e.g. from a corridor) so that it is inserted in the second installation opening until a guide part (a plate or a peg; spring- loaded or rigid) on the lower surface of the device for transmission of goods is pressed by gravity into a guide hole in the second horizontal element 9d. At the same time, the flange at the top of the device for transmission of goods (Fig. 5) abuts the first horizontal element 9c. The device 7 for transmission of goods is adjusted to be substantially vertical by means of adjusting elements provided in the bottom (one solution being shown in Fig. 7d). After this, the device 7 for transmission of goods can be locked in place with respect to the first horizontal element 9c, as shown in e.g. Fig. 5. A batten 52, shown in a partial enlargement in Fig. 5, is installed from the side of the closed space, by packing the free space 54 with a fire-retarding foam, or the like. After this, the device 7 for transmission of goods may also be fastened to the second vertical element 9b of the frame 9 by screws or the like, and, if necessary, to the first horizontal element 9c as well.

Figure 4c shows a situation in which the frame 9, the door frame, the door 2, and the device 7 for transmission of goods are installed; and Fig. 4d shows a cross-section of the situation of Fig. 4c.

The U-profiles of the frame structure thus act as some kinds of aligning means and locking means. If an L-profile shape is used, the operation may be largely similar to that presented above, except that no inserting in the U-profile is needed but said components can be pressed towards the aligning surface formed by the L-profile.

In buildings being renovated and in other buildings where the frame 9 is not pre-installed in the wall element, the frame may be installed in an opening formed in the wall and fastened to the wall structure. After that, the above presented procedure may be primarily followed.

The frame 9 may be fastened to the wall structure by using, for example, so- called wedge anchors, jamb screws, polyurethane foam, foundation fasteners designed for this purpose, or in another suitable way.

After the frame 9 has been installed, it may be fitted with the door frame for the door 2 as well as the device 7 for transmission of goods, as described above and illustrated by way of example in Fig. 7c. The door 2 may be installed in the door frame by e.g. hinging, which is known as such. One function of the door 2 is to limit the passage through the entrance opening between the closed space and the space outside the closed space. The installed door 2 can thus be brought to at least a first position, preventing passage through the entrance opening, and a second position, allowing passage through the entrance opening.

For the device 7 for transmission of goods, an opening 3 is formed, through which goods can be transferred from the outside of the closed space to the device 7 for transmission of goods and, correspondingly, from the device 7 for transmission of goods to the outside of the closed space. For example, the opening is provided with an openable and closable hatch 8, whereby this hatch may be used to prevent unauthorized removal of products placed in the device 7 for transmission of goods, via the opening. This hatch 8 is also referred to as an outer hatch 8. More such outer hatches 8 than one may be provided as well.

Figure 7a shows an example of a device 7 for transmission of goods, seen from the outside of the closed space 4. Figure 7b shows a device 7 for trans- mission of goods according to Fig. 7a, installed in a frame structure; and Fig. 7c shows a device 7 for transmission of goods according to Fig. 7b and a door 2 (the door frame not shown separately) installed in a frame 9. Figure 7d shows a side view of the device 7 for transmission of goods, installed in a frame structure 9 as shown in Fig. 7c. The device 7 for transmission of goods is formed, for example, to comprise four walls which constitute a box-like space 7a open at both ends. Figure 8a shows an example of the cross-section of a device 7 for transmission of goods, installed in a frame. The device 7 for transmission of goods is installed in the frame 9 and/or in a structure of a building by fastening it to said structures in a reliable way.

The end of the device 7 for transmission of goods, facing the closed space 4, may be equipped with one or more openable and closable lids, hatches, doors, or corresponding elements 6 by which the device 7 for transmission of goods may be closed from the side of the closed space, if necessary. This may be necessary, for example, when there is a need to limit the removal of products placed in the device 7 for transmission of goods from the side of the closed space 4 as well. For example, this may be necessary in families with small children, so that the children cannot have access to the products placed in the device 7 for transmission of goods. On the other hand, another purpose of this closing is to prevent the passage of persons via the device 7 for transmission of goods into the closed space 4, even if they could open the hatch 8 placed outside the closed space.

Hereinbelow in this description, the hatch on the side of the closed space 4 will also be referred to as the inner hatch 6. It should be mentioned that in an embodiment in which the device 7 for transmission of goods comprises more than one space 7a for transmission of goods, the inner hatch 6 on the side of the closed space 4 may be common to more than one space 7a for transmission of goods. On the other hand, each space 7a for transmission of goods may be equipped with a separate inner hatch 6.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the inner hatch 6 or the like on the side of the closed space is placed in one side wall of the device 7 for transmission of goods. This may be appropriate, for example, in a situation in which the space available for the device 7 for transmission of goods is limited in the depth direction, i.e. the direction transverse to the main direction of the device 7 for transmission of goods, so that the inner hatch 6 could not be opened if it were at the other end of the device 7 for transmission of goods. Figures 8a to 8f show some solutions available for closing the device 7 for transmission of goods, i.e. for providing the functionalities according to the outer hatch 8 and the inner hatch 6. Both the outer hatch 8 and the inner hatch 6 may be formed of hatch-like elements, whereby they operate like a door, or they may be sliding, or the like. In the embodiment of Fig. 8c, the space 7a for transmission of goods is equipped with a storage drawer 20, in which a product can be placed. The storage drawer 20 can be pulled out in the space 7a for transmission of goods, whereby products brought from the outside into the device 7a for transmission of goods can be picked up from the storage drawer 20, and correspondingly, when transmitting products in the other direction, the products can be placed in the storage drawer 20. In the embodiment of Fig. 8d, the storage drawer 20 can be pulled out from the outside as well, which corresponds to the function of the outer hatch 8. The frame 9 of Fig. 3a is shown in Fig. 12a, seen from the outside space 5, and in Fig. 12b, seen from the inside space 4, with a front door 2 (the door frame is not shown in this context) and a device 7 for transmission of goods installed in the frame 9. Visible to the outside, the device 7 for transmission of goods comprises e.g. two lockable outer hatches 8 connected to a device 7 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, handles 8a for opening the outer hatches, a data input panel 13 (e.g. a so-called lock panel), a display 15, and a sound-absorbed mail slot 16. In an embodiment, raw materials can also be delivered via an outer hatch 8 to a space 7a for transmission of goods provided with the required conditions and means for connecting e.g. a 3D printer or a food preparing device to the system 1 for transmission of goods. Such an arrangement may be advantageous for customers, e.g. for the reason that 3D printing may become faster, starting immediately after the reception of the raw materials, and correspondingly, the preparation of food can be started from the reception of the necessary raw materials, taking into account the time requirement set for the finished meal. It is obvious that a device 7 for transmission of goods used in connection with a frame according to the invention does not need to comprise all the parts shown in Fig. 12a, and on the other hand, the device 7 for transmission of goods may also comprise other parts which are not shown in Fig. 12a. Furthermore, the device 7 for transmission of goods may comprise weighing means, such as scales (not shown), for weighing products, whereby the data given by the weighing means can be used e.g. for detecting the delivery of a product in the space 7a for transmitting goods, and the removal of a product from the space 7a for transmission of goods. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the system 1 for transmitting goods may have been informed of the weight of an ordered product, for example in connection with the purchase of the product. Accordingly, after the product has been delivered to the space 7a for transmission of goods, the system 1 for transmission of goods may compare the weight of the product placed in the space 7a with the weight given in the order, and if there is a significant deviation, the system 1 for transmitting goods may notify e.g. the purchaser and/or the seller of the product about this, because it is possible that the delivered product does not correspond to the order, or that the product has been damaged or replaced with another product in the distribution chain. The weighing means may also be used to indicate a given lower limit set for the product placed in the space 7a for transmission of goods. Thus, according to a pre-agreed arrangement, the device 7 for transmission of goods is automatically replenished with the product, to ensure the availability of the specified product at all times. Such a prod- uct to be stored in the space 7a for transmission of goods may be, for example, a raw material used for 3D printing, or a food ingredient.

Weight detection may also be used for detecting possible attempts to break into the closed space via the device 7 for transmission of goods. If the weight detection means detect that there is a weight higher than expected in the device 7 for transmission of goods, it can be concluded, for example, that someone attempts to enter the closed space via the device 7 for transmission of goods. This may cause an alarm which is transmitted to the owner of the home and/or to a security company.

The invention may also be applied in situations in which the device 7 for transmission of goods is not taken into use at once but merely an option for it is provided; in other words, the device 7 for transmission of goods may be installed in the second place for installation 10b later on. Thus, a covering element 17 covering the second place for installation 10b may be installed instead of the device 7 for transmission of goods, as shown in the example of Fig. 10. This may be advantageous, for example, upon constructing a new building and providing an option for a device 7 for transmission of goods which may be needed later on during the life cycle of the building. For example, a person considering the purchase of an apartment in a new or renovated apart- ment building may reserve an apartment and decide later on, whether or not to purchase it. Thus, the constructor may still proceed with the construction and install a covering element 17. At the stage when the person has decided to purchase the apartment, the covering element 17 may, for example, be replaced with a device 7 for transmission of goods, or if the buyer does not want to use a device 7 for transmission of goods, the covering element 17 may remain in place. The purchaser or a possible later purchaser of the apartment may thus have the covering element 17 be replaced with a device 7 for transmission of goods, if desired. The structure of the frame 9 according to the invention may follow e.g. a common modular structure of doors and door frames. This facilitates unobstructed passage according to regulations relating to passage widths in solutions according to the invention. The width of the device 7 for transmission of goods may be selected with respect to the module selected. The height of the device 7 for transmission of goods is normally not a problem, and the width can be designed to be sufficient in the direction of the closed space. Thus, products which are easily handled manually and have a size of e.g. 80 cm ^χ 30 cm * 40 cm (height * width ^χ depth) can be placed in the space for transmission of goods.

The entrance openings for existing buildings and apartments generally follow a modular and standardized door and door frame structure, such as 21 M*9N (210 cm x 90 cm). In such buildings, one solution may be to replace the existing structure, including the doorframe and the door, with a new frame structure and a door solution comprising a device 7 for transmission of goods. If the frame is installed in a wall of a closed space e.g. in connection with renovation, it is possible that the size of the existing opening has to be made larger. In new building sites, however, the larger size of the opening can be taken into account already at the planning stage. Figure 13 shows a reduced cross-section, seen from above, of the placement of a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, in connection with a wall 4a (outer wall) between a closed space 4 and an outside space 5.

As stated above, the device 7 for transmission of goods preferably comprises two hatches, one outside (outer hatch) and one inside (inner hatch) the apartment 4. At least the outer hatch 8 but preferably also the inner hatch 6 is configured to be locked. The space between the hatches 6 and 8 constitutes the space 7a for transmission of goods.

The locking between the hatches may be arranged, for example, so that the outer hatch 8 may only be opened if the inner hatch 6 is locked and other conditions possibly set for opening the outer hatch 8 are met. Furthermore, the inner hatch 6 may comprise a mechanical opening and closing mechanism and/or an electronic lock and/or a separate mechanical lock openable with a key.

In a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embod- iment of the invention, opening the outer hatch 8 of the device 7 for transmission of goods triggers transmission of data on the opening of the outer hatch 8 to the customer's smart phone or a corresponding device. At the same time, the person opening the outer hatch 8 of the device 7 for transmission of goods may be identified by taking e.g. a photograph or a video.

The system 1 for transmission of goods may also comprise a display 15, 19 on or in the vicinity of the outer and/or inner hatch. On the display 19 on the inside, it is possible to display e.g. a photograph identifying the person opening the hatch 8 outside the space 7a for transmission of goods, or ringing the doorbell. The displays 15, 19 may be used for security control and communication. For example, on the display 15 of the outer hatch, the customer may instruct shareholders and other persons by various messages, such as "Welcome", "No advertisements, please", "Please do not disturb", "I need help...", and display data required by the housing association, such as the number of the apartment and the occupant(s). The system 1 for transmission of goods may also comprise a data input panel 25 on the side of the closed space 4 (Fig. 12b), for controlling the functions of the system 1 for transmission of goods, when necessary. The device 7 for transmission of goods may be equipped with various sensors for measuring, for example, the temperature of the device 7 or the space 7a for transmission of goods, the closed space or a part of it, and/or outside the door 2 (temperature control), the carbon dioxide content (control of ventilation), and movements within the closed space (for example burglar alarms or moni- toring of movements of old people by means of learning software). This data may be utilized in the data and control systems of housing associations and buildings, alarms, etc. The monitoring of movements of old people may help family members or home care service providers. The system 1 for transmission of goods may be connected to a data network, such as the Internet, enabling e.g. the necessary data transmission between the apartment (occupant) and product deliverers and collectors. Other types of data transmission solutions are possible as well. The system 1 for transmission of goods may also be connected, for example, to the data system of the building where the closed space 4 is located. Sensors 22 possibly included in the system 1 for transmission of goods may analyze changes in the conditions of the apartment, and provide data on the condition of the building to the housing association.

The computer 23 of the system 1 for transmission of goods may comprise learning software which may be used, e.g. with motion sensors, for monitoring the activity of an old person in the apartment, and deviations may be reported to an agreed person, for example, to the smart phone of a family member.

As already stated above, the system 1 for transmission of goods is placed in connection with a door. If a motion sensor or a camera does not enable good monitoring, for example, for monitoring the activity of old people, a sufficient number of motion sensors and/or other sensors connected to the device 7 for transmission of goods may be placed in the apartment 4. It should also be mentioned that the device 7 for transmission of goods may, if necessary, be divided into several spaces 7a for transmission of goods, each space 7a being equipped with a separate hatch and an electronic and/or other identifier. The device 7 for transmission of goods may take into account the needs of different products and deliveries, as well as periodical deliveries. Moreover, the inner hatch 6 may be common to one or more spaces 7a of the device 7 for transmission of goods. For example, a separate compartment may be provided for letters and other mail, a separate compartment for cold storage, and a separate compartment for products to be stored without special conditions. The hatch of each compartment may be separately lockable and openable; on the other hand, all hatches do not need to be lockable. For example, a mail slot and the space 7a for transmission of goods behind it can usually be designed so that no mail delivered to the space 7a for transmission of goods behind it can be picked up via the mail slot. Furthermore, a larger space 7a for transmission of goods may be provided for mail delivered during e.g. a vacation.

In an advantageous embodiment, the device 7 for transmission of goods is provided with means for reading a tag attached to a product to be placed in the space 7a for transmission of goods. The data on this tag can be used, for example, for settling and acknowledging the reception of an order. On the basis of the data on the tag, or data that can be retrieved from another source by means of the data on the tag, it may also be possible to find out the storage conditions required by the product.

In a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the outer hatch 8 of the device 7 for transmission of goods can be locked by an electronic lock and controlled via a data connection (e.g. Internet) or another network connection. The lock may be configured to be openable by a code, whereby a separate key is not needed. Such a code may be created in connection with a transaction, or the customer may give it to the deliverer electronically (e.g. by email, SMS), by phone, or in another suitable way. The code makes it possible to open the outer hatch of the device 7 for transmission of goods in connection with a delivery, preferably once, periodically according to an agreement, or at agreed regular intervals for a given deliverer and product (for example, meal delivery on weekdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.).

A data processing device or corresponding control device may be used in con- nection with the system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention. Figure 1 1 shows a reduced block chart of such a data processing device 12 available for use in connection with a system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention. The data processing device 12 comprises, for example, a computer 23 for analysing signals gener- ated by sensors 22 and for executing the necessary procedures as a result of the analysis. For example, when a product deliverer enters a previously obtained opening code on the panel 13, the computer 23 may receive information of the entered opening code and compare it with data stored in a database 14. If the comparison shows that the entered opening code matches with the code stored in the database, the computer 23 may generate a control signal for the lock used for locking the outer hatch 8, resulting in opening of the lock, whereby the outer hatch 8 can be opened. The computer 23 may also be used for forming data to be presented on the display 15, 19, and for supplying the data to the display 15, 19. The computer 23 may also monitor the operation of other sensors and actuators, even if they do not belong to the system 1 for transmission of goods as such. Examples include monitoring and control of temperature of the closed space; monitoring of movements of persons in a room and generating alarms if necessary, for example sound control on the basis of sound recognition for giving an alarm for example in a situation of an attack of illness or the like; monitoring of attempts to break into the closed space and generating an alarm if a burglary attempt is detected; and monitoring of signals given by fire sensors and generating and transmitting a fire alarm to a fire department in a fire situation; etc. The computer 23 may be placed in the closed space 4, separately from the system 1 for transmission of goods, or it may be integrated in the system 1 for transmission of goods. Further, the computer 23 does not need to be a separate device enclosed in a case of its own, but it may be an assembly which comprises e.g. a microprocessor, a memory, and other necessary auxiliary components assembled on one or more circuit boards, and which can be placed e.g. within or on the surface of the device 7 for transmission of goods on the side of the closed space 4.

The computer 23 may also be used as a so-called web server, whereby a remote connection to it may also be accessed from the outside of the closed space 4, for example via communication means 24. Such a web server may be provided with a variety of functions which may, on one hand, relate to the use of the system 1 for transmission of goods, and on the other hand, be independent of it, such as the generation of said alarms and transmitting them to a specified receiver.

The above-mentioned functions of the data processing device 12, or part of them, may possibly be implemented as a kind of a software application as well, which may be downloaded to e.g. a user's smart phone, tablet computer or a corresponding data processing device (not shown). Such a data processing device may thus be connected to product deliverers on one hand and to functionalities of the device 7 for transmission of goods on the other hand, such as the locking of hatches, sensors, door phone, etc. In the following, we will present some different uses and examples of the system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention. However, it is obvious that these are only some possible application examples, and that some application examples may be combined as well. The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention can be used for delivering products to a customer. The product or products may have been ordered via a website, by phone, by email, or in another suitable way. On the other hand, some products may be delivered periodically on the basis of an agreement, without a separate order for each delivery. For example, a cus- tomer may have ordered a regular delivery of food from a food store, or a regular delivery of drugs from a pharmacy. When a product is being delivered to the destination, i.e. the customer's device 7 for transmission of goods, the deliverer opens the outer hatch 8 with a key, by entering a code, or in another agreed way, and places the product/products in the space 7a for transmission of goods. After this, the deliverer of the product closes the outer hatch 8 and may leave, or in some embodiments an acknowledgement may be displayed to the deliverer of the product on the outside display 15, whereby the deliverer of the product can see that the system 1 for transmission of goods has detected the delivery of the product and acknowledged it having arrived in the space 7a for transmission of goods. The content of this acknowledgement may have been defined by the customer in advance, e.g. by the computer 23. The acknowledgement may include a code identifying the object of the acknowledgement.

The system 1 for transmission of goods may indicate an arrived product e.g. by an acoustic signal, a notification displayed on the inside display 19 (Fig. 12b), a light signal, or the like, to a person possibly present in the closed space. On the other hand, it is possible that the system 1 for transmission of goods transmits an email message, an SMS, or the like, to a predetermined address, such as the customer's email or mobile phone, whereby the customer will know that the product has arrived. The message may comprise data identifying the delivered product, the time of delivery, the weight, the identification of the person delivering the product, and/or other information relating to the delivery of the product. Thus, the arrival of goods, their storage in and removal from the device 7 for transmission of goods can be traced and reported elec- ironically to different parties, even in real time.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device 7 for transmission of goods comprises means for indicating the reception of a product placed via the first hatch 8 in the device 7 for transmission of goods, after the second hatch 6 has been opened for removing the product placed in the device 7 for transmission of goods from the device 7 for transmission of goods to the side of the closed space 4. In other words, this embodiment differs from a mail slot is e.g. in that after the product has been delivered in the device 7 for transmission of goods, it has not been actually received but the reception takes place when the product is removed from the device 7 for transmission of goods via the hatch on the side of the closed space. Information about both operations is obtained via the open/close function of the hatch, for example. During the above mentioned time between the delivery and the reception, the product is under control of the system 1 for transmission of goods, placed in the space 7 for transmission of goods, according to the conditions presented in the invention. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the system 1 for transmission of goods comprises means for controlling the conditions of the device 7 for transmission of goods. Some non-limiting examples include temperature control and humidity control. If the delivered product requires special conditions, the conditions of the device 7 for transmission of goods can be adjusted to meet the conditions required by the product as accurately as possible. For example, in the case of cold chain continuity of frozen products, the temperature of the space 7a for transmission of goods of the device 7 for transmission of goods can be set suitable for the conditions of frozen goods.

In a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the supplier or deliverer of the product may inform the system 1 of the special conditions required by the product and the estimated delivery time in advance already, whereby the system 1 for transmission of goods may start to set the conditions of the space 7a for transmission of goods to meet the target conditions in good time before the delivery of the product. Particularly in the case of products requiring cold storage, this may reduce the risk of deterioration of the products.

The system 1 for transmission of goods may also monitor the conditions of the device 7 for transmission of goods and compare them with the required conditions, and if the conditions of the space 7a for transmission of goods monitored by the device 7 deviate from the required conditions more than by a predeter- mined threshold, the system 1 for transmission of goods may, for example, generate an alarm and inform the customer of this.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the deliverer of the product does not necessarily need to know the code for opening the outer hatch 8, but the identification of the person delivering the product can be verified, for example by a biometric characteristic. One example is fingerprint identification, wherein the system 1 for transmission of goods comprises a fingerprint reader; and/or identification based on the characteristics of an eye, wherein the system 1 for transmission of goods comprises a camera 21 for taking a picture of the eye of the person delivering the product, and the person can be identified on the basis of this picture. Biometric identification requires that data on the bio- metric identification of the person delivering the product is stored in e.g. a database 14 so that the computer 23 or the like may compare the identification given by the person delivering the product with the stored identification, and conclude whether these match. If the identification given the person delivering the product corresponds to the stored identification, opening of the outer hatch 8 can be allowed. In another case, either an auxiliary identification is needed, or the opening of the outer hatch 8 is prevented. The system 1 for transmission of goods may also be determined to inform the customer of a situation in which it has been detected that a person other than a predetermined person for deliv- ering a product attempted to open the outer hatch 8. Similarly, a control period may be set for closing the outer hatch 8 in connection with collecting or delivering a product. If the outer hatch 8 is not closed within the period, set in the data processing device, after its opening, the device 7 for transmission of goods may close the outer hatch 8 automatically, and if the closing of the outer hatch 8 is prevented, an alarm of the open outer hatch 8 may be given immediately to e.g. a security firm and/or the customer.

Also, the inner hatch 6 on the side of the closed space 4 is preferably configured to be locked. This inner hatch 6 may be opened by e.g. a mechanical or electronic key, a code, a biometric identification, a voice command, or the like. In this way, it is possible to limit the persons allowed to open the inner hatch 6, if necessary.

The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention is preferably allocated an address or other data which can be used for identifying and positioning the system 1 for transmission of goods. This address data may consist of e.g. a street address and an apartment number, and/or geographic coordinates. The address data can be used, among other things, for directing the goods to be delivered to the correct destination. Furthermore, the address data can be used in various alarm situations for directing rescue personnel to the correct location. For example, if the system 1 for transmission of goods has detected that a person present in the closed space 4 has had an attack of illness, or that smoke has been detected in the closed space 4, an alarm message sent from the system 1 for transmission of goods may include the address data and the opening code of the front door 2 in addition to the reason for the alarm. The location data/address data is in electronic format, and it may be stored in e.g. a memory. The location data may also be readable, for example, by a reader device carried by a person delivering a product, whereby the person delivering the product can make sure that said product is intended to be delivered to the device for transmission of goods at hand. Correspondingly, in a situation of collecting a product, a person collecting the product may use the address data readable from the device for transmission of goods to make sure that the product to be collected is stored in the device for transmission of goods at hand.

The inner hatch 6 is preferably locked manually, whereby its opening from the outside of the closed space 4, for example by intruding into the computer 23 via a data network, can not necessarily open the inner hatch 6. However, even in such a situation, the monitoring of the state of the inner hatch 6 (closed/open, locked/unlocked) can be provided electronically.

In some cases, opening of the outer hatch 8 from the side of the closed space 4 can be made possible, for example in a situation in which it has been made sure that the person delivering a product is "doing the right thing", that is, delivering a product to this address or collecting a product from this address.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the system 1 for transmission of goods comprises means placed in the vicinity of the front door 2, for detecting the opening of the front door 2, the entrance of a person into the closed space 4, and/or the exit of a person from the closed space 4. Thus, when a person steps through the front door 2 into the closed space 4, the person can be recorded as having entered the closed space. Also, in a person counter function possibly included in the computer 23, the number of persons present in the closed space can be increased by one. In a case of emergency, the data of the person counters can be collected from different apartments and provided to rescue personnel. This number data may also be used for controlling, for example, the opening and locking of the outer hatch 8 and the inner hatch 6. For example, if the number data indicates that there is nobody in the closed space 4, opening of the inner hatch 6, for example, can be prevented, because it would presumably be unauthorized opening of the inner hatch 6. Correspondingly, when the system detects that a person enters the closed space 4 where no one was present before, according to the number data, opening of the inner hatch 6 may be allowed, provided that other possible conditions relating to the opening are met (e.g. the person who entered the closed space is authorized to open the inner hatch 6). Also, in a situation where a person is leaving the closed space 4 and nobody is staying in the closed space 4, the procedure may be as follows. The system 1 for transmission of goods checks if both hatches 6, 8 are locked, and if at least one of the hatches 6, 8 is not locked/closed, the system 1 for transmission of goods informs the leav- ing person of this, whereby he/she can close and lock the open/unlocked hatch 6, 8.

Even if the system did not comprise monitoring of the movements of persons, or even if such monitoring were applied, it is possible that the system 1 for transmission of goods comprises a feature by which the person leaving the room may set the system 1 for transmission of goods in a so-called absent state (that is, nobody is left in the apartment, and the use of the absent state resets a possible person counter). Thus, the system 1 for transmission of goods may activate operations defined for this state, such as checking of the locking status of the hatches 6, 8 before the leaving of the person, activation of a burglar alarm system, etc. Correspondingly, when a person enters the apartment, he/she may turn off the absent state of the system 1 for transmission of goods and simultaneously activate a possible person counter function. The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention is also suitable for use in closed spaces other than apartments. For example, in various storage premises and stores, transactions may be made in this controlled way, and products may be transmitted between the storage/store and a space outside the storage/store. One example is the acquisition of spare parts. A person may have ordered a desired spare part via the Internet, and after paying it, an opening code is transmitted to the person and the supplier places the spare part in a device 7 for transmission of goods at a store. Thus, the buyer of the spare parts may enter the front door of the store at any time of day, on any day of week (so-called 24/7 coverage), and enter the opening code, received in connection with the payment, on the lock panel 13 of the device 7 for trans- mission of goods, whereby the outer hatch 8 opens and the spare part can be picked up from the device 7 for transmission of goods.

The system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embod- iment of the invention can also be used by utilizing unmanned delivery of products. In such applications, products can be delivered by using, for example, an unmanned aircraft, such as a drone. The product is placed in the load space, or the like, of the unmanned aircraft, and the delivery address, which may thus be e.g. coordinate data, is entered in the control system of the unmanned air- craft. On the basis of this data, the unmanned aircraft is directed to the correct site. When the unmanned aircraft approaches the site, information on this is received by e.g. a system 1 for transmission of goods at the site, and identification data on the approaching unmanned aircraft is compared with previously given data, and if the data match, the outer hatch 8 can be opened. In such an application, the outer hatch 8 is preferably a hatch which is in a substantially horizontal position when opened. This hatch may possibly be used as a landing platform for the unmanned aircraft. After the unmanned aircraft has landed, it may leave the product on the landing platform, or transfer the delivered product into the space 7 for transmission of goods. After this, the unmanned aircraft may take off and return to its place of departure. Leaving of the unmanned aircraft, e.g. from the surface of the outer hatch 8 turned down, can be detected, after which the system 1 for transmission of goods can close and lock the hatch and communicate the arrival of the product. In addition to the outer hatch, it is possible to apply a solution of a drawer movable in and out, as shown in Figs. 8d and 8f.

It should be mentioned that the above described application, in which an unmanned aircraft can be used for delivering products, is primarily suitable for use in connection with buildings in which the frame 9 has been or is installed in the outer wall of the building. Such buildings include detached houses, semidetached houses, terrace houses, and possibly also garages, storages, and stores. Instead, the front doors of apartments in multi-storey buildings are usually connected to indoor corridors, or the like, to which it is typically not possible to direct an unmanned aircraft. Figures 16a and 16b show an example of a system 1 for transmission of goods, placed in connection with a wicket door 2 on the roof of a building 60, comprising e.g. several devices 7 for transmission of goods, a common landing platform 63 for aircrafts, a safety area 64, and means for delivering goods to different devices 7 for transmission of goods on the basis of identifier tags. The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the present invention can also be used in the other direction, that is, for delivering goods from the closed space 4 to the outside of the closed space. This may be useful, for example, for returning products to the sender. The recipient of the product, i.e. the customer, may agree on returning a product with the supplier of the product, and e.g. give an address from which the product can be collected for returning, and a code by which the collector of the product can open the outer hatch 8 and pick up the product from the device 7 for transmission of goods. Also in this situation, the system 1 for transmission of goods may generate an acknowledgement of the collecting of the product and, if possible, take a picture of the person collecting the product. In addition to the customer, the acknowledgement data can be transmitted to the supplier of the product who will then know the time of collecting the product and that the product has been collected for transportation. Such an acknowledgement may also be used for determining the time of returning the product.

The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the present invention may also be used for transmission of goods between e.g. persons. For example, persons may deliver products to each other on their way to and from work, on shopping trips, etc. Thus, a person delivering or collecting a product is given a code for opening the outer hatch 8, and the product can be left in or picked up from the device 7 for transmission of goods. In this way, it is easier and more flexible to transmit e.g. shopping, books, tableware, tickets, etc. between persons, because the transmission of goods does not require that both persons are present in the same place at the same time. This may improve logistics and save time and trouble of at least one of the parties.

Furthermore, the system 1 for transmission of goods can be used for transmission of products between persons without moving the product placed in the device 7 for transmission of goods via the inner hatch 6, but only via the outer hatch 8. An example is a situation in which one person wants, for example, to borrow an item from another person, and neither of these persons lives in the apartment 4. These persons may agree with the occupant of the apartment 4 that the device 7 for transmission of goods in the apartment is used for transmitting the item between these persons. The occupant of the apartment gives the opening code for opening the outer hatch 8 to both persons. It should be mentioned that the opening code does not need to be the same for both persons, but individual codes may be used. Furthermore, the codes may be valid for single use, unless the intention is to allow several such transmissions of items between the persons. The above described arrangement is also suitable for a kind of flea market operation. Thus, when a person offers products to be sold e.g. online, the buyer, having made a payment, can obtain a code for opening the outer hatch 8 of the seller's device 7 for transmission of goods, and collect the product bought. Transmission of products can be arranged in the other direction as well; that is, if the buyer uses a system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention, the buyer can give the seller a code by which the seller can deliver or transmit, delivered by another person, the product to the buyer's space 7 for transmission of goods, by the code given by the buyer. The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention comprises means for locking/opening the front door; in this way, special access can be allowed for e.g. authorities via the front door 2 in emergency situations. This can be implemented e.g. by defining a specific opening code which is only known to authorities and possibly the occupant of the apartment, in the system 1 for transmission of goods. By using this code, the authority can open the front door 2 and enter the apartment. Another possibility is that this special opening code is stored in a database 14, or it is automatically generated in an emergency situation, whereby the code can be transmitted with an alarm message e.g. to an emergency response centre.

Data transmission between the system 1 for transmission of goods and an external data network is preferably encrypted, whereby outsiders cannot easily have access to the codes even if they succeeded in capturing messages transmitted between the system 1 for transmission of goods and the external data network. Although a number of examples of using the system 1 for transmission of goods have been presented above, the delivery of a product may be associated with various services, such as home help service, medical care, etc. The system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention may be equipped with a so-called conventional mail slot, through which mail can be delivered to the apartment. If necessary, even such a mail slot can be defined so that the mail carrier has a code/card enabling the insertion of mail into the mail box, while the mailbox remains closed if no code or an incorrect code is used

In the following, we will present some further possible applications for use and/or examples of details which may be comprised by the device 7 for transmission of goods, and/or the covering element 17. The covering element 17 is not necessarily merely a board or a corresponding element covering the place for installation 10b, but some functions may be integrated in it which are typically part of the front door 2 of the closed space. Examples include a mail slot and a door bell. In addition to or e.g. instead of a doorbell, it is possible to install components of a door phone system, such as a ringing button and a camera, in the covering element 17. On the side facing the closed space 4, the covering element 17 may be correspondingly equipped with a display and control buttons for the door phone. Also, a so-called peephole can nowadays be implemented as a combination of a camera and a display, or even by a mobile phone having a camera and a display. Such a peephole may thus be arranged in connection with the covering element 17 if an actual door phone system is not used. On the other hand, the above mentioned devices may also be integrated in the device 7 for transmission of goods in a situation in which the system 1 for transmission of goods according to the invention is used. A display possibly provided in the covering element 17 or the device 7 for transmission of goods may be applied for interactive advertising, such as displaying advertisements of various commercial companies, whereby a person present within the closed space 4 may perform a transaction by applying a touch screen or another suitable device. The display may also be used for displaying schedules of public transportation, communications by the housing association, and other information. On the other hand, the occupant of the apartment may apply the touch screen to inform the house manager or the property maintenance firm of a need for maintenance or a damaged device in the apartment. These notices and the maintenance operations relating to them can be recorded in an apartment-specific log which forms part of the apartment history.

Figure 14a shows a cross-section of a detail of the positioning of a frame 9 according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, and its fastening to the structures, such as a floor 29, of a building. Figure 14b shows a cross- section of point A-A of Fig. 14a, and Fig. 14c shows a cross-section of point B-B of Fig. 14b. The frame 9 is fastened to the floor 29, at suitable points, by using fastening means 27, such as wedge anchors. The frame 9 comprises, for example in the second horizontal element (lower beam) 9d and/or the first horizontal element 9c, one or more guide and locking tracks 28, by which the rigid frame can be fitted in an opening in a wall, taking into account the location of the frame in the depth direction and its position to be substantially parallel and perpendicular to the surrounding structures of the building. The locking track 28 is equipped with adjusting means 26 (e.g. a hexagonal socket-head clamping screw or the like), by which the rigid frame is positioned and locked to be stationary with respect to the inner surfaces of the opening. The frame, locked and positioned in this way, can then be anchored by anchoring means 27 to the structures of the inner surfaces of the opening (e.g. by wedge anchors to a concrete structure). As a result, the rigid and dimensionally precise frame 9 is supported by the adjusting means 26, tensioned and permanently anchored by the anchoring means 27. If necessary, it is still possible to cast second stage concrete and/or to apply insulation foam intended for fireproofing and fastening, and to perform cleating. The positioned frame 9 comprises guide surfaces 9e (Fig. 14b) for subsequent installation and positioning of the door frame and the device 7 for transmission of goods, or the covering element 17. Also, gaps possibly left between other parts of the frame 9 and the installation opening 18, may be filled with filling material, such as insulant, and covered by cleating.

The transmissions taking place in the system for transmission of goods may be, for example, deliveries and returns relating to online shopping; deliveries from a food store; direct deliveries by producers without a wholesale store or a store of daily consumer goods; deliveries from pharmacies; recycling relating to sustainable development; deliveries relating to services, such as meals and laundry; services relating to library services; borrowing of goods; flea-market- type transmission of goods for sale, and ingredients for food and raw materials for products to be made (e.g. 3D printing).

The system for transmission of goods may comprise different types of spaces for different needs and products. Each product and each space may have their own identification tags. The tag of the space may comprise, for example, the so-called street address of the closed space, and a supplementary element to be included in it.

By means of the system for transmission of goods, it may even be possible to detect deviations. For example, the reported delivery weight is compared with the actual delivery weight, and if a significant deviation is detected, it is e.g. possible to control possible losses on the basis of this information.

The system for transmission of goods enables control of the storage spaces and the goods stored in them in connection with their reception, storage, and removal. In addition to the time of controlling the opening/closing of the hatch, it is possible to control the weight of the goods in the compartment by means of sensors provided in the hatch, and to generate notices of the transmission situation on the basis of this information. For example, opening of a hatch is first detected in connection with a transmission situation, and thereafter a pos- sible change of the weight in the storage space after the closing of the hatch. If the weight is as expected, a transmission (reception or delivery) is considered to have taken place, and a notification of the event is generated. The weight may also be used for automatic ordering of a given type of material to be stored in the device for transmission of goods, after the weight has reached a lower limit set for it.

The system for transmission of goods may also give usability information automatically; that is, if the weight measured by the device for transmission of goods indicates that a product is placed in the space for transmission, no new delivery to said space can be made until the product is received, and this information is provided to the owner of the system for transmission of goods. The system for transmission of goods may be equipped with sensors which control not only the conditions but also the properties of the product placed in the storage space, such as possible residues of explosive agents or other harmful chemicals. Notifications of such observations relating to the product may be formed as agreed.

In a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the locking of the door 2 may be arranged from the side of the device 7 for transmission of goods, e.g. by means of locking pins projecting through the frame element 1 1 and the door frame into the door leaf, whereby the locking and unlocking can be arranged by means of e.g. a lock case placed in the device 7 for transmission of goods, mechanically or by means of electronic locking control.

Furthermore, the frame 9 according to the invention may also be applied so that two or even more devices 7 for transmission of goods are installed in it, for example one on each side of the door 2. Figure 5 shows an arrangement for use in connection with a frame 9 according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, for preventing the installed device 7 for transmission of goods from moving upwards. The arrangement comprises a sleeve 50, preferably having an outer thread, the inner side being machined for a guide pin 51. The sleeve 50 is installed in the frame 9, and the device 7 for transmission of goods is installed so that the pin 51 is inside the sleeve 50 and inserted through a hole 55 at the top of the device 7 for transmission of goods. The threaded part at the bottom of the pin 51 sliding by gravity can be locked, e.g. by a nut, from the inside of the device 7 for transmission of goods, i.e. below the pin 51 and the hole 55 in Fig. 5. The device for transmission of goods is positioned from below by gravity (lower position). After the installation, the clearance 53 takes into account the downwards movement of the device 7 for transmission of goods by gravity and the production tolerance. The top surface of the device 7 for transmission of goods is provided with a set of guiding holes into which the sliding pins fit, locking the device 7 for transmission of goods in the lateral and vertical directions. A possible lath 52 on the side of the closed space prevents rising. The lath 52 may be equipped with adjustment holes, whereby the locking can be achieved with e.g. roll pins after the adjustment (if necessary, holes may be bored). The space 54 left between the device 7 for transmission of goods and the frame 9 may be filled with e.g. fire-resistant expanding foam which may also prevent condensation.

Figure 15a shows a system 1 for transmission of goods according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, installed in connection with a wall 4a; and Figs. 15b to 15e show details of the installation of Fig. 15a. In Fig. 15b, an arrow indicates the direction of installation of the device 7 for transmission of goods in this embodiment. Figure 15c shows an enlargement of point 1 marked in Fig. 15b, i.e. a positioning and locking arrangement formed in connection with the first horizontal element 9c of frame 9. It comprises e.g. a sleeve 50, a guide pin 51 on whose lower end 51 a a nut can be screwed after positioning, as well as an alignment hole 55 in the device 7 for transmission of goods. Figure 15d shows an enlargement of point 1 marked in Fig. 15b, i.e. a positioning and locking arrangement formed in connection with the second horizontal element 9d of frame 9. It comprises e.g. a guide pin 26 which is positioned in a hole 9i made in the second horizontal element 9d. In other words, the device 7 for transmission of goods is turned to a substantially vertical position, until the guide means, i.e. the pin 26, in the bottom of the device 7 for transmission of goods, and the counterpart, i.e. the hole 9i, in the second horizontal element 9d, are aligned. Figure 15e shows an enlargement of point 3 marked in Fig. 15b, showing an adjusting leg 58 attached to the lower surface of the device 7 for transmission of goods, preferably close to the rear edge, for adjusting the device 7 for transmission of goods to stand up straight before it is fastened at its upper end.

Figure 16a shows an example of using a system 1 for transmission of goods according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention as a landing platform for an aircraft on the roof of a building, and Fig. 16b shows an example of such a system 1 for transmission of goods seen from the side of the closed space. On the roof of the building, there is, for example, a construction 61 comprising a passage to a stairway inside the building, a closed space with a wall having an opening provided with a frame (not shown in the figure), and several devices 7 for transmission of goods installed in it, as well as a door 2 to the stairway. One location is provided with a landing platform 63 for an aircraft, for delivering or collecting goods. The system 1 for transmission of goods thus comprises means (not shown in the figure) for moving goods between the landing platform 63 and the devices 7 for transmission of goods. Each device 7 for transmission of goods is equipped with separate address data which can be read electronically (e.g. RFID tag, NFC transceiver) or optically (e.g. QR code or bar code). Figure 16a also shows the main entrance of the building, indicated with reference 62. The above described arrangement for transmission of goods involves a significant problem caused by landing and take-off of aircrafts, moving and rolling elements of the devices used, and the risk of falling off the roof. Therefore, the problem is the danger area 64 on the roof, and therefore, for safety reasons, persons cannot be present during the operation of transmission of goods.

As a solution to this problem, the invention presents an embodiment of the system for transmission of goods, where the transmission of goods in both directions is automated, without people on the roof, i.e. in the danger area 64.

It will be obvious that the present invention is not limited solely to the above- presented embodiments but it can be modified within the scope of the appended claims. List of reference numerals:

1 system for transmission of goods

2 door, front door

2a door frame

3 opening

4 closed space

4a wall of closed space

5 outside space

6 inner hatch

7 device for transmission of goods

7a space for transmission of goods 8 outer hatch

8a handle for opening outer hatch

9 frame

9a first vertical element

9b second vertical element

9c first horizontal element

9d second horizontal element

9e wall of beam, aligning means

9f bottom of beam, aligning means 9g holes, aligning means

9h clamping beam

9i positioning hole

10a first place for installation

10b second place for installation 1 1 frame element

1 1 a flange part

1 1 b flange part

12 data processing device

13 data input panel

14 database

15 display

16 mail slot

17 covering element

18 installation opening

19 display in closed space

20 storage drawer

21 camera

22 sensors

23 computer

24 communication means

25 data input panel in closed space

26 adjusting means

27 fastening means

28 guide and locking track

29 floor of building

50 sleeve guide pin

lower end of guide pin lath

clearance

free space

alignment hole

adjusting leg

building

construction

entrance door of building landing platform for aircraft danger area on roof of building