Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a smart cabinet system comprising a cabinet system configured for cargo deliveries, and a user-defined waste collection unit.

Background Art

In online shopping, not only the price competition but also the fast and safe delivery of the purchased products have an impact on the purchasing preferences. Various negativities increase the cargo transaction costs and adversely affect the electronic commerce, such as having to go to the same addresses more than once due to the fact that the cargo officers cannot reach an authorized person to receive the product at the delivery address, or delivering the product to the wrong addresses.

For this reason, various cargo companies have created cargo delivery points in the central areas of the city where users can pick up their cargo with a delivery code sent to them. However, when the user habits are examined, it is seen that the users do not prefer such delivery points because they are far from their residence areas. In addition, the fact that users in big cities do not know the location addresses of the cargo delivery cabinets of each cargo company makes it ambiguous to access the cargo delivery point. The obligation of each cargo company to establish their own delivery cabinets and the inability to deliver any cargo of more than one company to such delivery cabinets increases the investment and installation costs of delivery cabinets.

Another challenge of the city life is the disposal of regularly produced household waste. Economical sorting and treatment of recyclable materials is vital for sustainable environmental practices. Personal waste management significantly reduces the amount of household waste and disposal costs. However, when the areas where recyclable wastes are collected are not included in the daily usage areas of the users, it makes it difficult for the users to manage the process by sorting the waste. When the user behaviors are examined, it is observed that as the accessibility of recycling points increases, the performance of individual waste management increases, and thus, recyclable wastes are sorted at the source where they are produced. As mentioned above, the fact that the cargo delivery cabinets and waste units are not within easy reach negatively affects the user habits. In the art, a system which is safe, fast and close to the residences of the users and where the waste recycling units are integrated has not been encountered.

Objects of the Invention

Principal object of the present invention is to provide an integrated system where users can receive their products and easily separate their wastes by means of the waste units close to their residences.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a waste unit where waste is sorted at the source by giving users personal waste management habits.

Another object of the present invention is to contribute to an environment-friendly and sustainable recycling system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart cabinet system with cargo compartments that are suitable for use of more than one person at different times and designed in such a way that people and organizations registered in the system can safely deliver their cargo.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a multi-purpose cabinet system that offers cheap and fast cargo service.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention proposes a multi-purpose smart cabinet system suitable for easy and safe use by multiple users. In this regard, the present invention comprises at least one cargo compartment configured to place an item (for example, a cargo) therein so that said items can be delivered to a predefined user, a cargo compartment cover delimiting each cargo compartment, and an electronic lock that is configured to allow use of said cargo compartment cover only by authorized person or people, and that is used with an access data. The present invention comprises at least one waste unit having a bottom, sidewalls and a space in which waste material are to be stored; a waste unit cover enabling access to said storage space; and at least one waste unit lock configured to prevent access by unauthorized users to said storage space. Said smart cabinet system comprises a user authentication module that in communication with a main server containing at least one identification data of more than one user, having an interface where a user who wants to access the smart cabinet system can enter the associated identification data, and being in contact with the electronic lock and the waste unit lock, and a control unit configured to perform a preset action corresponding to the signal from said user authentication module. In this way, the security of the system is increased because only the defined users can access the smart cabinet system.

In an embodiment of the invention, the smart cabinet system comprises a cargo compartment cover that is opened automatically after an access code corresponding to an item placed in said cargo compartment is entered into the user authentication module, and a waste unit cover that is opened automatically by processing the data from said user authentication module after a user information defined in the system is entered into the authentication module. Such automatically opening doors allow users to access the storage space without physical contact with the doors. Said waste unit comprises a foot pedal arranged in such a way that the user can open the waste unit cover manually in case of any automation failure.

In another embodiment of the invention, the smart cabinet system is in communication with a remote central server using one or more of the Wi-Fi (wireless) interface, cellular interface, local area network (LAN) interface, Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Bluetooth TM interface. Thus, the transmission ways of the access codes generated in the central server to the smart cabinet system and the cargo recipient are diversified.

In another embodiment of the invention, the smart cabinet system comprises an enclosure in which the waste unit is disposed. With said enclosure, the smart cabinet system is not affected by the physical negativities of the area where it is located.

In another embodiment of the invention, said cabinet system comprises a solar panel for the supply of energy needs. In this way, the smart cabinet system can be easily installed in different locations without mains electricity.

Brief Description of the Drawings The smart cabinet system which is the subject of the present invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings for better understanding thereof, drawings are attached for better explaining the present invention and are not limiting the invention.

Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a smart cabinet system comprising a waste unit, presented in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a multi-purpose cabinet system presented in Fig. 1, wherein the cargo compartment is exposed.

Figure 3 is a frontal view of a smart cabinet system incorporating a solar panel and waste unit covers, presented in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a side view of a smart cabinet system presented in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 5 is a top view of a smart cabinet system presented in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The invention will be explained in detail in this section with reference to the accompanying drawings and the list of reference numerals used in the appended drawings is as follows:

10. waste unit

11. waste unit cover

12. waste unit lock

20. cargo compartment

21. cargo compartment cover

22. electronic lock

30. solar panel

40. enclosure

50. camera

60. user authentication module

100. smart cabinet system It is clear that the embodiments of the present invention described above may be combined in an appropriate manner, as would be appreciated by the skilled person.

The invention mainly provides a multi-purpose smart cabinet system (100) suitable for easy and safe use by multiple users. Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, the invention comprises at least one cargo compartment (20) configured to place an item to be delivered to a recipient, and at least one waste unit (10) having a bottom, sidewalls and a space together forming a storage space in which waste materials are to be stored. The present invention comprises a cargo compartment cover (21) delimiting said each cargo compartment (20), and a waste unit cover (11) allowing access to said storage space. In addition, the multi-purpose smart cabinet system (100) comprises an electronic lock (22) that is used with resettable access data, configured to allow the cargo compartment cover (21) to be used only by authorized person or people in order to provide a secure service, and at least one waste unit lock (12) configured to prevent authorized users from accessing said storage space.

The smart cabinet system (100) presented within the scope of the present invention comprises a user authentication module (60) that is in communication with a main server containing at least one identification data of more than one user, that includes an interface where a user who wants to access the smart cabinet system (100) can enter the associated identification data, and that is associated with the electronic lock (22) and the waste unit lock (12). Said multi-purpose smart cabinet system (100) has a control unit (not shown) configured to perform a preset action corresponding to the signal from the user authentication module (60).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the smart cabinet system (100) comprises a control unit configured to open said electronic lock (22) by verifying at least one identification data entered through the interface of said user authentication module (60). Said cargo compartment cover (21) is automatically opened by means of a cabinet cover opening apparatus provided with said control unit, which is in contact with the cargo compartment cover (21). In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the present invention comprises a control unit configured to open the waste unit cover (11) by processing the data from the user authentication module (60). Said waste unit cover (11) is automatically opened by means of an opening apparatus used in the art, which is provided with said control unit and is in contact with the waste unit cover (11). In this way, the user can receive his cargo without touching any surface, including the smart cabinet system (100), and thus exposure of pathogens transmitted by surface contact is prevented.

In another preferred embodiment, the smart cabinet system (100) comprises more than one waste unit (10). In this embodiment, at least one of said waste units (10) is arranged for domestic-organic waste, and the remaining waste units (10) are configured in accordance with the waste sorting regulations of local governments.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the waste units (10) are used by the neighborhood residents, who are registered or defined in a user system, in the regions where the smart cabinet system (100) is positioned and is physically within the area of influence (for example, in a street or a neighborhood). In said embodiment, the user opens the cover of the waste unit (10), of which he is a member, by entering a password and can leave his waste in two different organic-recyclable bins.

In a possible embodiment of the invention, the inventive smart cabinet system (100) has a communication module containing one or more of the Wi-Fi (wireless) interface, cellular interface, local area network (LAN) interface, Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Bluetooth TM interface, in order to communicate with a remote central server. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, said smart cabinet system (100) comprises a modem (not shown in the figures) in communication with a remote central server.

In accordance with the descriptions presented above and an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Fig. 3, the waste unit lock (12) is optionally configured as a combination lock with three, four or more predetermined digits. Said password lock is stored in the database on the central server and is shared with the user or authorities in charge of waste management, when necessary.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each cargo compartment (20) is included in a numbering system and each cargo compartment (20) is assigned a unique number (not assigned to any other compartment within the scope of the system). The compartment number of each cargo compartment (20) is visibly written on the cargo compartment cover (21) and preferably a barcode or data matrix identifying this number is visibly affixed on the relevant compartment. During the delivery process, the cargo attendant reads the barcodes on the cargo package and the cargo compartment cover (21) using an application (which is already installed on the device used by the authorized cargo attendant and communicates with the database on the central server). The application matches the user, to whom the cargo will be delivered, and the cargo compartment (20). Then, the passwords generated on the central server by means of a processor and modem within the scope of the invention are associated with the cargo delivery information in the application. To the cargo recipient, who was previously registered in the system on the central server or identified as a user, the number of the cargo compartment (20) where the cargo package has been left and the access code required to open the electronic lock (22) of the cargo compartment (20) is informed via a communication channel preferred by the user (for example, via SMS or via e-mail). The cargo recipient (user) receives the cargo package from the cargo compartment (20) by entering the access code into the user authentication module (60) at any time, preferably within a predetermined period of time. After the user enters the access code to the user authentication module (60), the control unit informs the central server that the relevant user's cargo has been received and that the cargo compartment (20) is ready for use by any other user registered in the system. Thus, the delivery is made safely regardless of whether the person it is to be delivered to is present at the specified address or not. Such deliveries to smart cabinet systems (100) located near the recipients, rather than a direct delivery to the recipient's address, significantly reduce labor costs in the cargo process.

In another possible embodiment of the invention, the user authentication module (60) includes an alphanumeric password entry interface, RFID scanning camera or QR code reader for the purpose of entering an identification data (i.e., access code) associated with the authorized user into the system.

In another possible embodiment of the invention, the user authentication module (60) includes a voice recognition device and a voice recognition activation button configured to verify whether the user is an authorized cargo recipient. The voice recognition device is activated only when the voice recognition activation button is pressed, thus preventing the unauthorized collection and processing of personal data. With the user authentication process performed through a voice recognition device, users who are illiterate, cannot access their mobile phones temporarily, cannot enter the cargo access code or the password for the waste collection unit lock sent to them, can thus use the smart cabinet system (100). In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the waste unit (10) comprises a level sensor that is in communication with the control unit and is positioned to detect the level of filling. In this way, the waste filling level is detected and local managers are informed for waste disposal.

In another embodiment of the invention, the smart cabinet system (100) comprises a compression apparatus disposed in the waste unit (10) and configured to compress the waste thrown into the waste unit (10). In this way, the discharge period of the waste unit (10) is extended, which contributes to the effective use of the workforce.

In another embodiment of the invention, as shown in Fig. 4, said smart cabinet system (100) includes an enclosure (40) in which the waste unit (10) is positioned. With the enclosure (40), it is easier to install more than one waste unit (10) in the system.

A preferred embodiment of the invention comprises at least one solar panel (30) in electrical communication with a battery that can also be charged with solar energy in order to supply energy to the smart cabinet system (100). The number of the solar panels (30) included in said smart cabinet system (100) is optimized for efficient operation of the system. Thus, in order to provide the energy required by the system, a system is provided containing the appropriate number and size of solar panels (30). In this way, on one hand, external dependence is eliminated in terms of energy, and on the other hand, an environmentally friendly smart cabinet system (100) is provided. Besides, flexibility is provided in the selection of locations where the smart cabinet system (100) will be placed, due to the fact that a central electrical network is not needed.

In possible embodiments of the present invention, said smart cabinet system (100) is equipped with one or more LED lights to provide interior and/or exterior lighting. In this way, a safe and accessible smart cabinet system (100) is provided even in time zones where there is no daylight, or when the physical ambient lighting in which the smart cabinet system (100) is positioned is not sufficient.

In possible embodiments of the present invention, said smart cabinet system (100) comprises an air conditioning device (not shown in the figures). The increase in the volume of electronic commerce requires online sale of products that are sensitive to ambient temperature and the delivery of such products by cargo. In order to meet this requirement, the air conditioning device integrated into the invention keeps the temperature of the product stable during the delivery of the cargo products from the supplier to the end user. This embodiment of the invention offers a smart cabinet system (100) especially suitable for deliveries that require cold chain.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a camera (50) to keep said smart cabinet system (100) under surveillance. The images of the camera (50) are, optionally, transmitted to the central server by the modem on a continuous basis. Thus, both the safety of the smart cabinet system (100) which is the subject of the invention and the security of the region where said cabinet system is located are provided.

Another possible embodiment of the present invention is exemplified in Fig. 5. In said embodiment, the smart cabinet system (100) includes an integrated cargo compartment (20) and waste unit (10).

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the smart cabinet system (100) further comprises at least one emergency compartment (not shown) adapted to receive emergency supplies that people would primarily need in case of a disaster. Each emergency compartment described herein comprises an emergency compartment cover delimiting itself and that can be opened and closed in order to reach the items contained therein or to place an item thereto. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said emergency compartment cover has a structure that is accessible and can be opened/closed from the outside of the smart cabinet system (100). Optionally, there is also an emergency compartment lock that is accessible from the outside of the cabinet system (100) to ensure that said emergency compartment cover is opened only by an authorized person. Each emergency compartment and each cargo compartment (20) of the cabinet system (100) of this embodiment may be possessed by different people as independent modules. In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the emergency compartment cover does not include any locking system, or optionally, it may also have an opening apparatus that is only accessible through the cargo compartment (20) to which it is associated. This opening apparatus may have a structure that can be opened simply by pushing, pulling, or turning a latch. As an alternative to this optional embodiment, said opening apparatus may be an emergency compartment lock. An emergency compartment having an emergency compartment cover according to this embodiment is accessible only after the relevant electronic lock (22) of the cargo compartment (20) and then the relevant emergency compartment lock are both unlocked. In a smart cabinet system (100) according to this embodiment, since a person who wants to access the relevant emergency compartment (10) must open both the electronic lock (22) and the emergency compartment lock, especially the emergency compartment has increased security against unauthorized access.

Referring to above disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the cargo compartment (20) may be located above or below (adjacent, i.e., neighboring) the emergency compartment, or said compartments may be positioned side-by-side. Irrespectively, it is possible to design half of at least one cargo compartment as an emergency compartment which ratio may be varied in accordance with the demands of the users. On the other hand, while the covers of some emergency compartments available in a smart cabinet system (100) are configured to be accessible from inside the cargo compartment (20), some of them may be configured to be accessible from outside of the cabinet system (100) according to the invention.

It is clear that the embodiments of the present invention described above can be combined in an appropriate manner, as would be appreciated by the skilled person.