PACKAGE RECEIVING DEVICE, KIT FOR ASSEMBLING THE SAME, AND CORRESPONDING METHODS OF MANUFACTURING, ASSEMBLING AND OPERATING ASSOCIATED THERETO
20220346583 · 2022-11-03
Assignee
Inventors
Cpc classification
A47G29/20
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A47G2029/146
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A47G29/141
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A47G2029/145
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
A47G29/20
HUMAN NECESSITIES
Abstract
A package receiving device (1) for receiving a package (3) includes a mounting panel (5a), a bottom panel (5b) and at least one side panel (7). The package receiving device (1) and corresponding panels (5,7) thereof being operable in at least one first configuration where the mounting, bottom and side panels (5a,5b,7) are collapsed onto one another into a reduced space, with the at least one side panel (7) being placeable between the bottom and mounting panels (5b,5a), and being containable within a spanning width (1) defined by the bottom and mounting panels (5b,5a). The package receiving device (1) and corresponding panels (5,7) thereof being further operable in at least one second configuration where the panels (5,7) are deployed and positioned with respect to one another in order to define a containment space being shaped and sized for containing the package (3) therein.
Claims
1. A package receiving device for receiving a package, the package receiving device comprising: a mounting panel for securely mounting the package receiving device onto a given fixed structure; a bottom panel being operatively connectable to the mounting panel and being moveable with respect to said mounting panel; and at least side panel being operatively connectable to the bottom panel and being moveable with respect to said bottom panel; the package receiving device and corresponding panels thereof being operable between at least one first configuration where the mounting, bottom and side panels are collapsed onto one another into a reduced space, with the at least one side panel being placeable between the bottom and mounting panels, and being containable within a spanning width defined by said bottom and mounting panels, the package receiving device and corresponding panels thereof being further operable into at least one second configuration where the panels are deployed and positioned with respect to one another in order to define a containment space being shaped and sized for containing the package therein.
2. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the mounting panel includes at least one mounting component for mounting the package receiving device onto the given fixed structure.
3. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the bottom panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the bottom panel is operatively urged against the mounting panel, and a second configuration where the bottom panel is drawn away from said mounting panel; wherein the bottom panel is drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling downwardly on said bottom panel; and wherein the bottom panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge.
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device comprises at least one dampening system for dampening a movement of the bottom panel with respect to the mounting panel; wherein the at least one dampening system including a first extremity operatively connectable to the mounting panel and a second extremity operatively connectable to the bottom panel; and wherein the at least one dampening system includes first and second dampening systems disposed on left and right sides respectively of the package receiving device.
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the at least side panel includes at least one pair of side panels; wherein each side panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where each side panel is operatively urged against the mounting panel, and a second configuration where each side panel is drawn away from said mounting panel; wherein each side panel is drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling laterally on said each side panel; wherein each side panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge; wherein each side panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where each side panel is operatively urged against the bottom panel, and a second configuration where each side panel is drawn away from said bottom panel; wherein each side panel is drawn away from the bottom panel via a pivoting action by pulling upwardly on said each side panel; wherein each side panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge; wherein the at least one pair of side panels includes left and right lateral panels; wherein the at least side panel includes at least one frontal panel; wherein the at least one frontal panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the at least one frontal panel is operatively urged against the bottom panel, and a second configuration where the at least one frontal panel is drawn away from said bottom panel; wherein the at least one frontal panel is drawn away from the bottom panel via a pivoting action by pulling upwardly on said at least one frontal panel; and wherein the at least one frontal panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge.
12.-25. (canceled)
26. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device (1) includes at least one top panel; wherein the at least one top panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the at least one top panel is operatively urged against the mounting panel, and a second configuration where the at least one top panel is drawn away from said mounting panel; wherein the at least one top panel is drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling on said at least one top panel; and wherein the at least one top panel is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge.
27.-30. (canceled)
31. A package receiving device according to claim 26, wherein the at least one top panel is provided with a locking mechanism configured to interact with at least one corresponding side panel of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one second configuration, so as to selectively lock the at least one top panel and associated package receiving device in place, thereby preventing a non-authorized user of the package receiving device from accessing a package placed inside said package receiving device the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the locking mechanism is configured to interact between at least the at least one top panel and at least one first side panel; wherein the locking mechanism is further configured to interact between the at least one top panel and at least one other side panel; wherein the locking mechanism is further configured to interact between the at least one top panel and both the left and right lateral panels; wherein the locking mechanism includes a one-time latch so to be maintained in a locked configuration when activated; and wherein the one-time latch is configured to be opened with a corresponding key or combination owned by an authorized user of the package receiving device.
32.-36. (canceled)
37. A package receiving device according to claim 26, wherein the at least one top panel includes first and second top panels being hingedly connectable to one another one, the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the first and second top panels are hingedly connectable to one another one via at least one corresponding hinge; and wherein the at least one corresponding hinge is spring-loaded via at least one corresponding spring for being biased into a deployed configuration.
38. (canceled)
39. (canceled)
40. (canceled)
41. A package receiving device according to claim 26, wherein the at least one top panel includes at least one retaining component being positioned, shaped and sized for cooperating with at least one top portion of at least one associated side panel for maintaining said at least one associated side panel in place when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one second configuration, the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the at least one retaining component comprises at least one groove for receiving a portion of a top edge of the at least one associated side panel; wherein the at least one retaining component comprises at least one lateral groove for receiving a portion of a top edge of a corresponding side panel; wherein the at least one retaining component comprises at least left and right lateral grooves for receiving portions of top edges of left and right lateral panels respectively; and wherein the at least one retaining component comprises at least one front groove for receiving a portion of a top edge of at least one frontal panel.
42.-45. (canceled)
46. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device comprises a magnetic retainment system for retaining adjacent panels together when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one second configuration the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the magnetic retainment system includes at least one corresponding magnet being provided about a first side panel, said at least one corresponding magnet being positioned, shaped and sized, and having a magnetic capability, for retaining thereagainst a second side panel adjacent to the first side panel, when said second side panel is deployed up against the first side panel; wherein the at least one corresponding magnet includes a spring-loaded magnet wherein the spring-loaded magnet is a spring-loaded ceramic magnet wherein the magnetic retainment system includes at least one metal magnet docking plate; wherein the at least one corresponding magnet is provided about the frontal panel of the package receiving device, said at least one corresponding magnet being positioned, shaped and sized, and having a magnetic capability, for retaining thereagainst a corresponding lateral panel; and wherein the at least one corresponding magnet comprises a pair of such corresponding magnets, one being used for retaining thereagainst the left lateral panel, and another one being used for retaining thereagainst the right lateral panel, when the left and right lateral panels are deployed up against the frontal panel respectively.
47.-52. (canceled)
53. A package receiving device according to claim 26, wherein the panels are positioned, shaped and sized so that the at least one top panel is located between the bottom and mounting panels when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration, and wherein the panels are further positioned, shaped and sized so that the at least one top panel is located between the at least one side panel and the mounting panel when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration.
54. (canceled)
55. A package receiving device according to claim 1, the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the package receiving device includes a set of information and/or instructions for a user of said package receiving device; wherein the set of information and/or instructions is provided an inner side of at least one corresponding panel of the package receiving device; wherein the set of information and/or instructions is provided an inner side and upper portion of the mounting panel of the package receiving device; wherein the package receiving device includes a user identification code associated to a user of said package receiving device; wherein the user identification code is provided an inner side of at least one corresponding panel of the package receiving device; wherein the user identification code is provided an inner side and upper portion of the mounting panel of the package receiving device; wherein the user identification code includes a bar code; wherein the at least one side panel is a substantially rectangular side panel; wherein the containment space defined by the panels when deployed and positioned with respect to one another into the at least one second configuration correspond substantially to a rectangular prism; wherein the at least one side panel is made of a transparent material; wherein the at least one side panel is made of a translucid material; wherein the at least one side panel is made of an opaque material; and wherein the at least one side panel is a meshed panel.
56.-67. (canceled)
68. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one side panel is spring-loaded via at least one corresponding spring for being biased into a deployed configuration; and wherein the at least one corresponding spring includes a spring selected from the group consisting of a radial spring and a torsional spring.
69. (canceled)
70. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device comprises at least one side fingerguard for laterally covering a side portion of the containment space when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one second configuration, the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the at least one side fingerguard is hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the at least one side fingerguard is operatively urged against the mounting panel, and a second configuration where at least one side fingerguard is drawn away from said mounting panel; wherein the at least one side fingerguard is drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling laterally on said at least one side fingerguard; wherein the at least one side fingerguard is spring-loaded via at least one corresponding spring for being biased into a deployed configuration; and wherein the package receiving device comprises at least one pair of side fingerguards for laterally covering left and right-side portions respectively of the containment space when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one second configuration.
71.-75. (canceled)
76. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device includes at least one covering panel being positioned, shaped and sized for covering the panels of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one first configuration, the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the at least one covering panel is mountable onto an outermost side of the bottom panel; wherein the at least one covering panel is slidably mountable onto a corresponding track of the outermost side of the bottom panel; wherein the at least one covering panel includes at least one rounded edge; wherein the at least one covering panel includes a pair of distally-apart rounded side edges; wherein the at least one covering panel is provided with an outer layer made similar to a surrounding environment of the package receiving device; wherein components of the package receiving device are made of a weather resistant material; and wherein components of the package receiving device are protected with a weather resistant layer.
77.-83. (canceled)
84. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device includes a slot for receiving mail therethrough the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the slot for receiving mail is provided with an adjacent symbol being representative of mail for indicating to user of the package receiving device an intended use of said slot wherein the slot is provided about an upper portion of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one first configuration; and wherein the slot is operatively provided about the bottom panel of the package receiving device.
85. (canceled)
86. (canceled)
87. (canceled)
88. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device includes a pulling component the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the pulling component includes a corresponding recess integrated about a corresponding panel of the package receiving device; wherein the pulling component is operatively provided about the bottom panel of the package receiving device; and wherein the pulling component is operatively defined by the slot of the bottom panel of the package receiving device.
89. (canceled)
90. (canceled)
91. (canceled)
92. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device includes a drainage system for draining liquid accumulated in the containment space; wherein the drainage system includes at least one component selected from the group consisting of draining hole and drainage channel; wherein the drainage system is provided about an inner side of the bottom panel; and wherein the inner side of the bottom panel is provided with at least one centralized drainage hole and a series of converging drainage channels.
93. (canceled)
94. (canceled)
95. (canceled)
96. A package receiving device according to claim 1, wherein the package receiving device includes at least one light emitting device the packaging receiving device further having at least one of the following components and features: wherein the at least one light emitting device is provided about a lower portion of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one first configuration; wherein the at least one light emitting device is operatively provided about the bottom panel of the package receiving device; wherein the at least one light emitting device includes a dusk sensor and is operable during low-light conditions; wherein the at least one light emitting device is operatively connectable to a source of energy; wherein the at least one light emitting device includes at least one light emitting diode (LED); wherein the at least one light emitting device includes a pair of light emitting devices, each being disposed about a corresponding side of the package receiving device; wherein the package receiving device is commercialized under a given trademark name, and wherein the given trademark name is present on the at least one covering panel so as to be visible when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration; and wherein the package receiving device comprises at least one railing component for installing the package receiving device onto a corresponding railing.
97.-105. (canceled)
106. A kit with corresponding components for assembling a package receiving device according to claim 1.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
[0036]
[0037]
[0038]
[0039]
[0040]
[0041]
[0042]
[0043]
[0044]
[0045]
[0046]
[0047]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION:
[0048] In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several reference numbers, only some figures have been provided with reference numbers, and components and features of the present invention illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions shown in the figures are preferred, for exemplification purposes only.
[0049] Moreover, although the present invention was primarily designed for receiving (as well as delivering, expediting, etc.) and/or storing package(s), parcel(s), mail and/or the like, for example, it may be used with other objects and/or in other types of applications, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. For this reason, expressions such as “receiving”, “delivering”, “expediting”, “storing”, “package”, “parcel”, “mail”, etc., used herein should not be taken so as to limit the scope of the present invention and include all other kinds of objects and/or applications with which the present invention could be used and may be useful. For example, the present package receiving device could also be used with and/or for various other “deliverable” and/or “receivable” products (ex. “publicity flyers”, “promotional samples”, etc.) for instance, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
[0050] Moreover, in the context of the present invention, the expressions “package receiving device”, “device”, “bin”, “receptacle”, “assembly”, “system”, “apparatus”, “product”, “unit”, “equipment”, “method” and “kit”, as well as any other equivalent expression(s) and/or compound word(s) thereof known in the art will be used interchangeably, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. This applies also for any other mutually equivalent expressions, such as, for example: a) “delivering”, “mailing”, “expediting”, “shipping”, “distributing”, “relaying”, etc.; b) “receiving”, “storing”, “containing”, “safekeeping”, “protecting”, “encasing”, “shielding”, etc.; c) “package”, “parcel”, “courier”, “object”, “item”, “good”, “mail”, “letter”, “publicity”, “paper”, “flier”, “slip”, “pamphlet”, etc.; d) “collapsible”, “collapsed”, “folded”, “closed”, “shut”, “non-deployed”, etc.; e) “open”, “deployed”, “operational”, “functional”, etc.; f) “secured”, “locked”, “closed”, etc.; g) “hole”, “orifice”, “through-hole”, etc.; as well as for any other mutually equivalent expressions, pertaining to the aforementioned expressions and/or to any other structural and/or functional aspects of the present invention, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art. Also, in the context of the present description, expressions such as “can”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “would”, etc., may also be used interchangeably, whenever appropriate, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.
[0051] Furthermore, in the context of the present description, it will be considered that all elongated objects will have an implicit “longitudinal axis” or “centerline”, such as the longitudinal axis of shaft for example, or the centerline of a coiled spring, for example, and that expressions such as “connected” and “connectable”, or “mounted” and “mountable”, may be interchangeable, in that the present invention also relates to a kit with corresponding components for assembling a resulting fully-assembled and fully-operational package receiving device.
[0052] Moreover, components of the present system(s) and/or steps of the method(s) described herein could be modified, simplified, altered, omitted and/or interchanged, without departing from the scope of the present invention, depending on the particular application(s) which the present invention is intended for, and the desired end result(s), as briefly exemplified herein and as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.
[0053] In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprise various components, and although the preferred embodiments of the present package receiving device and corresponding portion(s)/part(s)/component(s) as shown consist of certain geometrical configurations, as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential to the invention and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e. should not be taken so as to limit the scope of the present invention. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and cooperation there in between, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the present package receiving device and corresponding portion(s)/part(s)/component(s) according to the present invention, as will be briefly explained herein and as can be easily inferred here from by a person skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
LIST OF NUMERICAL REFERENCES FOR SOME OF THE CORRESPONDING POSSIBLE COMPONENTS ILLUSTRATED IN THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0054] 1. package receiving device (or simply “device”)
[0055] 2. fixed structure
[0056] 2a. railing
[0057] 2b. wall
[0058] 3. package
[0059] 5. panel(s) (i.e. “outer” panel(s) of the package receiving device)
[0060] 5a. mounting panel
[0061] 5b. bottom panel (also acting as “covering panel” on outermost side)
[0062] 7. side panel(s) (i.e. “inner” panel(s) of the package receiving device)
[0063] 7a. first side panel (ex. “left lateral panel”)
[0064] 7b. second side panel (ex. “right lateral panel”)
[0065] 7c. third side panel (ex. “frontal panel” or simply “front panel”)
[0066] 9. top panel(s) (ex. lid(s))
[0067] 9a. first top panel
[0068] 9b. second top panel
[0069] 11. mounting component (ex. bracket, fastener(s), etc.)
[0070] 13. hinge
[0071] 15. dampening system
[0072] 15a. first dampening system (ex. “left dampening system”)
[0073] 15b. second dampening system (ex. “right dampening system”)
[0074] 17. locking mechanism
[0075] 19. latch
[0076] 21. retaining component
[0077] 23. groove
[0078] 23a. first groove (ex. “left groove”)
[0079] 23b. second groove (ex. “right groove”)
[0080] 23c. third groove (ex. “front groove”)
[0081] 25. magnetic retainment system
[0082] 25a. magnet
[0083] 25b. docking plate (ex. metal docking plate)
[0084] 27. set of information and/or instructions (for user)
[0085] 29. user identification code (ex. bar code)
[0086] 31. spring (ex. radial spring, torsional spring, etc.)
[0087] 33. fingerguard
[0088] 33a. first fingerguard (ex. “left fingerguard”)
[0089] 33b. second fingerguard (ex. “right fingerguard”)
[0090] 35. covering panel (ex. “outer layer” or “skin” of package receiving device)
[0091] 37. track (for covering panel)
[0092] 37a. first track (ex. “left track”)
[0093] 37b. second track (ex. “right track”)
[0094] 39. rounded edge
[0095] 39a. first rounded edge (ex. “top rounded edge”)
[0096] 39b. second rounded edge (ex. “bottom rounded edge”)
[0097] 41. slot (ex. for receiving mail, etc.)
[0098] 43. symbol (for slot)
[0099] 45. pulling component
[0100] 47. recess
[0101] 49. drainage system
[0102] 49a. drainage hole (of drainage system)
[0103] 49b. draining channel (of drainage system)
[0104] 51. light emitting device (ex. LED)
[0105] 51a. first light emitting device (ex. “left light emitting device”)
[0106] 51b. second light emitting device (ex. “right light emitting device”)
[0107] 53. railing component
[0108] 55. other component
[0109] I. spanning width (of bottom and mounting panels)
[0110] Broadly described, and as better exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the present invention relates to a package receiving device (1) capable of easily, conveniently and securely containing a package being delivered therein (and/or meant to be expedited therefrom), until an intended recipient may decide to retrieve it via a corresponding key and/or unlocking mechanism associated to said package receiving device (1).
[0111] The present parcel receiving device (1) may come in the form of a package receiving device (1) including one and/or several of the following possible components and features (and/or different possible combination(s) and/or permutation(s) thereof):
[0112] Indeed, and as can be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, there is provided a package receiving device (1) for receiving (and/or expediting) a package. The package receiving device may comprise a mounting panel for securely mounting the package receiving device onto a given fixed structure (ex. wall, railing, floor, etc.). The package receiving device may also comprise a bottom panel being operatively connectable to the mounting panel and being moveable with respect to said mounting panel. The package receiving device may also comprise at least side panel being operatively connectable to the bottom panel and being moveable with respect to said bottom panel. As exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device and corresponding panels thereof may be operable between at least one first configuration where the mounting, bottom and side panels are collapsed onto one another into a reduced space, with the at least one side panel being placeable between the bottom and mounting panels, and being containable within a spanning width defined by said bottom and mounting panels, the package receiving device and corresponding panels thereof being further operable into at least one second configuration where the panels are deployed and positioned with respect to one another in order to define a containment space being shaped and sized for containing the package therein.
[0113] The mounting panel may include at least one mounting component (ex. a mounting bracket, and associated hardware, such as bolt(s), rivet(s), fastener(s), etc.) for mounting (ex. either securely, fixedly, temporarily, adjustably, etc.) the package receiving device onto the given fixed structure (ex. wall, railing, floor, etc.).
[0114] According to a possible embodiment, the bottom panel is hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the bottom panel is operatively urged against the mounting panel (for example, during a collapsed configuration of the package receiving device), and a second configuration where the bottom panel is drawn away (ex. frontwardly, etc.) from said mounting panel (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0115] The bottom panel may be drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling downwardly on said bottom panel, and the bottom panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge (ex. a linear tube hinge, and/or any other suitable mechanical equivalent(s), etc.).
[0116] The package receiving device may comprise at least one dampening system for dampening a movement of the bottom panel with respect to the mounting panel (for example, either when the bottom panel is opened and/or closed). For example, the at least one dampening system may include a first extremity operatively connectable to the mounting panel and a second extremity operatively connectable to the bottom panel. In the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the at least one dampening system includes at least one pneumatic strut, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention.
[0117] For example, each dampening system may include a dampening pulley/wire system, with a spring-loaded pulley (and/or spool) being operatively provided about the mounting panel, and a corresponding cable cooperating with the pulley having a distal end connected to a corresponding side of the bottom panel.
[0118] Either way, and according to a possible embodiment, the at least one dampening system includes first and second dampening systems disposed on left and right sides respectively of the package receiving device, for providing the package receiving device with greater structural and/or operational symmetry/stability.
[0119] As can be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, the at least one side panel of the package receiving device may include at least one pair of side panels.
[0120] Each side panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where each side panel is operatively urged against the mounting panel (for example, during a collapsed configuration of the package receiving device), and a second configuration where each side panel is drawn away (ex. sideways, etc.) from said mounting panel (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0121] Each side panel may be drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling laterally on said each side panel, and each side panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge (ex. a piano hinge, and/or any other suitable mechanical equivalent(s), etc.).
[0122] Alternatively, and as exemplified in the accompanying drawings, each side panel is hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where each side panel is operatively urged against the bottom panel (for example, during a collapsed configuration of the package receiving device), and a second configuration where each side panel is drawn away (ex. upwardly, etc.) from said bottom panel (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0123] Each side panel may be drawn away from the bottom panel via a pivoting action by pulling upwardly on said each side panel, and according to the embodiment illustrated, each side panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge (ex. a piano hinge, and/or any other suitable mechanical equivalent(s), etc.).
[0124] As can be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, the at least one pair of side panels may include left and right lateral panels, and the at least one side panel may include at least one frontal panel.
[0125] According to one possible embodiment, the at least one frontal panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the at least one frontal panel is operatively urged against the bottom panel (for example, during a collapsed configuration of the package receiving device), and a second configuration where the at least one frontal panel is drawn away (ex. upwardly) from said bottom panel (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0126] The at least one frontal panel may be drawn away from the bottom panel via a pivoting action by pulling upwardly on said at least one frontal panel, and the at least one frontal panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the bottom panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge (ex. a piano hinge, and/or any other suitable mechanical equivalent(s), etc.).
[0127] As can also be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may include at least one top panel.
[0128] According to a possible embodiment, the at least one top panel is hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the at least one top panel is operatively urged against the mounting panel (for example, during a collapsed configuration of the package receiving device), and a second configuration where the at least one top panel is drawn away (ex. upwardly and/or outwardly) from said mounting panel (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0129] The at least one top panel may be drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling on said at least one top panel, and the at least one top panel may be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device via at least one corresponding hinge (ex. a piano hinge, and/or any other suitable mechanical equivalent(s), etc.).
[0130] The at least one top panel may be provided with a locking mechanism configured to interact with at least one corresponding side panel of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one second configuration, so as to selectively lock the at least one top panel and associated package receiving device in place, thereby preventing a non-authorized user of the package receiving device from accessing a package placed inside said package receiving device.
[0131] According to a possible embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to interact between at least the at least one top panel and at least one first side panel (ex. the at least one frontal panel). The locking mechanism may be further configured to interact between the at least one top panel and at least one other side panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panels). Optionally also, the locking mechanism may be further configured to interact between the at least one top panel and both the left and right lateral panels.
[0132] The locking mechanism may come in various shapes and forms, but according to a possible embodiment, it includes a one-time latch so to be maintained in a locked configuration when activated, and the one-time latch may be configured to be opened with a corresponding key and/or by combination (mechanically or electronically controlled—whether directly and/or remotely) owned by an authorized user of the package receiving device (ex. owner of the package receiving device, etc.).
[0133] According to the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the at least one top panel includes first and second top panels being hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected, movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) to one another one via at least one corresponding hinge, and the at least one corresponding hinge is spring-loaded via at least one corresponding spring for being biased into a deployed configuration (for example, when the package receiving device is opened by pulling down on the bottom panel, etc.).
[0134] The at least one corresponding spring may include at least one radial spring, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention.
[0135] The at least one top panel (including first and/or second top panels) may include at least one retaining component being positioned, shaped and sized for cooperating with at least one top portion of at least one associated side panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panel, and/or font panel, etc.) for maintaining said at least one associated side panel in place when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one second configuration (for example, during a deployed and closed-off configuration of the package receiving device).
[0136] The at least one retaining component may comprise at least one groove for receiving (ex. retaining, securing, maintaining, etc.) a portion of a top edge of the at least one associated side panel, and thus, maintaining said at least one associated side panel, securely in place, etc. For example, the at least one retaining component may comprise at least one lateral groove for receiving (ex. retaining, securing, maintaining in place, etc.) a portion of a top edge of a corresponding lateral/side panel. Preferably, the at least one retaining component comprises at least left and right lateral grooves for receiving (ex. retaining, securing, maintaining in place, etc.) portions of top edges of the left and right lateral panels respectively. Preferably also, the at least one retaining component may comprise at least one front groove for receiving (ex. retaining, securing, maintaining in place, etc.) a portion of a top edge of the at least one frontal panel.
[0137] As can be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may comprise a magnetic retainment system for retaining adjacent panels together when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one second configuration (and prior to closing the top panel(s) on the side panel(s), for example). The magnetic retainment system may include at least one corresponding magnet being provided about a first side panel, said at least one corresponding magnet being positioned, shaped and sized, and having a magnetic capability, for retaining threreagainst a second side panel adjacent to the first side panel, when said second side panel is deployed up against the first side panel. The at least one corresponding magnet may include a spring-loaded magnet, and more particularly, a spring-loaded ceramic magnet, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention.
[0138] As also show in the accompanying drawings, the magnetic retainment system may also include at least one metal magnet docking plate, and the at least one corresponding magnet can be provided about the frontal panel of the package receiving device, for example, said at least one corresponding magnet being positioned, shaped and sized, and having a magnetic capability, for retaining threreagainst a corresponding lateral panel. As can be easily understood from the drawings, and according to a possible embodiment, the at least one corresponding magnet comprises a pair of such corresponding magnets, one being used for retaining threreagainst the left lateral panel, and another one being used for retaining threreagainst the right lateral panel, when the left and right lateral panels are deployed up against the frontal panel respectively.
[0139] According to a possible embodiment of the package receiving device, the panels are positioned, shaped and sized so that the at least one top panel is located between the bottom and mounting panels when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0140] As can be easily understood from the accompanying drawings, the panels may be further positioned, shaped and sized so that the at least one top panel is located between the at least one side panel and the mounting panel when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0141] Alternatively, the panels could be positioned, shaped and sized so that the at least one top panel be located between the lateral panels and the at least one frontal panel when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration (ex. in an initial collapsed configuration).
[0142] As exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may include a set of information and/or instructions for a user of said package receiving device (ex. for a delivery person delivering, and/or someone picking-up the package, etc.). The set of information and/or instructions may be provided on an inner side of at least one corresponding panel of the package receiving device, for example. According to a possible embodiment shown, the set of information and/or instructions is provided on an inner side and upper portion of the mounting panel of the package receiving device.
[0143] It is worth mentioning that the package receiving device may be provided with different types of information and/or instructions in order to assist a user of said package receiving device, with the operational steps thereof.
[0144] For example, each other panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panel, and/or front panel, etc.) may be provided with a sequential indicia for indicating to a user of the package receiving device a sequential deployment (and/or retraction) of said each other panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panel, and/or front panel, etc.).
[0145] The sequential indicia could include at least one corresponding number, for example, and in the case where the package receiving device comprises left and right lateral panels, and a front panel, the left and right lateral panels could be provided with sequential indicia “1” and “2” respectively (for example), and the front panel is provided with sequential indicia “3” (for example), although various other possible sequences of deployment are also contemplated by the present invention (ex. one could start with the front panel first, and then continue with either one of the left and right lateral panels, as exemplified in the accompanying figures).
[0146] Alternatively and instead of number(s), the sequential indicia could includes at least one corresponding letter, and in the case where the package receiving device comprises left and right lateral panels, and a front panel, and the left and right lateral panels could be provided with sequential indicia “A” and “B” respectively (for example), and the front panel could be provided with sequential indicia “C” (for example). Once again, various other possible sequences of deployment are also contemplated by the present invention (ex. one could start with the front panel first, and then continue with either one of the left and right lateral panels, as exemplified in the accompanying figures).
[0147] In either case, each corresponding sequential indicia could be either embossed and/or printed, and/or displayed via any other suitable manner, on its corresponding panel, etc.
[0148] It is worth mentioning however that such sequential indicia are not absolutely necessary, in that, the design of the present package receiving device allows a user to engage the deployment sequence in a very simplified, and very natural and very intuitive manner. Indeed, deployment/operation and positioning of the panels (ex left and right lateral panels, frontal panel, top panel(s), etc.) are meant to done very easily and instinctively, and a result, sequential indicia are not absolutely necessary on the panels(s), and the present package receiving could simply be provided with a very succinct set of information and/or instructions which, for example, could read as follows: 1) release spring-loaded folding lid; 2) lift all (3) flaps to open position; 3) place parcel inside receptacle; 4) close lid and lock; and 5) scan and/or take photo of unique client code below.
[0149] Indeed, as can be easily understood from the accompanying drawings and intended use of the present invention, the package receiving device may includes at least one user identification code associated to at least one user of said package receiving device, and to be used by at least one intervening person (ex. delivery person, pick-up person, etc.) during the delivery and/or expediting process. Indeed, it is worth mentioning that the present the package receiving device is not only intended to be used as a delivery device, but could also be used for expediting, in that, a user of the package receiving device could use it to expedite a package meant to be pick up by a shipping company and/or personnel that could be provided with authorized access to the package receiving device via a suitable manner (ex. a key, an access code, etc.).
[0150] As exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the user identification code could provided an inner side of at least one corresponding panel of the package receiving device (ex. on an inner side and upper portion of the mounting panel of the package receiving device), and could include a bar code, for example, although various other suitable location(s) on the package receiving device are also contemplated by the present invention for the user identification code, and various other suitable mechanical, electrical/electronical and/or other equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention for the type of user identification code and/or access code.
[0151] According to a possible embodiment, and as exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the at least one side panel may be a substantially rectangular side panel, in which case, the containment space defined by the panels when deployed and positioned with respect to one another into the at least one second configuration would correspond substantially to a rectangular prism, for example, although various other suitable shapes and forms are also contemplated by the present invention for the panel(s) (ex. whether left and/or right lateral panels, and/or frontal panel). It is also worth mentioning that the present package receiving device need not be limited to the presence of many such panel(s), and could ultimately be provided with one “single side panel” being positioned, shaped and sized to receive the package therein when in the deployed configuration. For example, such “single side panel” could ultimately be made of a deformable and resilient/elastic material, capable of being collapsed when the package receiving device is closed (i.e. collapsed), but also, capable of providing an appropriate containment contour wall for the package when the package receiving device is deployed. Naturally, other part(s) and/or panel(s) of the package receiving device could be modified and altered accordingly to accommodate such a “single side panel”.
[0152] Similarly, whether it be a “single side panel” and/or a plurality of side panels (ex. left and right lateral panels, and a frontal panel, as exemplified in the accompanying drawings), each panel could come in a variety of different shapes, forms and sizes, depending on the intended use/purpose of the package receiving device, and the desired end result(s), as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art. For example the at least one side panel may be made of and/or contain a portion made of a transparent material. Alternatively, the at least one side panel may be made of and/or contain a portion made of a translucid material. Optionally also, the at least one side panel may be made of and/or contain a portion made of an opaque material. In the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, each side panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panel, and/or front panel, etc.) is a meshed panel (ex. wire meshing, etc.).
[0153] As can be easily understood from the accompanying drawings, and according to a possible embodiment, each side panel (ex. top panel, and/or left and/or right lateral panel, and/or front panel, etc.) is spring-loaded via at least one corresponding spring for being biased into a deployed configuration.
[0154] The at least one corresponding spring may include a radial and/or torsional spring, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention.
[0155] As also shown, the package receiving device may comprise at least one side fingerguard for laterally covering a side portion of the containment space when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one second configuration (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0156] According to one possible embodiment, the at least one side fingerguard may be hingedly connectable with respect to the mounting panel of the package receiving device for operation between a first configuration where the at least one side fingerguard is operatively urged against the mounting panel, and a second configuration where at least one side fingerguard is drawn away from said mounting panel.
[0157] The at least one side fingerguard may be drawn away from the mounting panel via a pivoting action by pulling laterally on said at least one side fingerguard, and according to a possible embodiment, the at least one side fingerguard is spring-loaded via at least one corresponding spring for being biased into a deployed configuration, and the at least one corresponding spring may include a radial spring, for example, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention.
[0158] According to the embodiment exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device comprises at least one pair of side fingerguards (ex. left and right side fingerguards) for laterally covering left and right side portions respectively of the containment space when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one second configuration (for example, during a deployed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0159] Optionally, and although not shown, each side fingerguard could be positioned, shaped and sized so as to be insertable into a corresponding recess defined about an inner portion of the bottom panel when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0160] As also exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may include at least one covering panel being positioned, shaped and sized for covering (ex. concealing, hiding, etc.) the panels of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device).
[0161] The covering panel may be a separate piece from the bottom panel, or could ultimately be made to be integral to said bottom panel, in which case, the covering and bottom panel would represent a single piece made of essentially a same material, in which case, the at least one covering panel would be positioned, shaped and sized for acting as the at least one bottom wall when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one second configuration (for example, during a deployed or operational configuration of the package receiving device).
[0162] According to a possible embodiment, and as exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the at least one covering panel is mountable onto an outermost side of the bottom panel, and may be slidably mountable onto at least one corresponding track of the outermost side of the bottom panel, and preferably, onto a pair of distally-apart tracks provided on a corresponding pair of distally-apart side edges of the bottom panel.
[0163] The at least one covering panel may include at least one rounded edge, and preferably, the at least one covering panel includes a pair of distally-apart rounded side edges, in order to provide the covering panel with a very slim and slick overall design.
[0164] As can be easily understood, components of the package receiving device and/or the at least one covering panel are made of a durable weather resistant material, and components of the package receiving device and/or the at least one covering panel may also be protected with a weather resistant layer (ex. spray, coating, film, paint, etc.).
[0165] The at least one covering panel may also be provided with an outer layer (ex. skin, etc.) made similar and/or identical to a surrounding environment (ex. bricks of a wall of a home, aluminum siding, etc.) of the package receiving device, in order for the at least one covering panel (and thus, for the overall package receiving device) to “blend in” nicely with its surrounding environment, etc.
[0166] As also exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device can include a slot for receiving mail therethrough. According to a possible embodiment, and as shown in the figures, the slot for receiving mail may be provided with an adjacent symbol, being representative of mail, for indicating to user of the package receiving device an intended use of said slot. For example, and as shown in the figures, a symbol of an “envelope” and a corresponding directional “arrow” could be provided adjacent to the slot. The slot may be provided about an upper portion of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one first configuration, and preferably, the slot is operatively provided about the bottom panel of the package receiving device, so as to be easily visible and exposed about an upper portion of the package receiving device when operated in the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device). Thus, and as can be easily understood from the accompanying drawings, the present package device, by virtue of its design and components, could also be used as a conventional mailbox.
[0167] As also exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may includes a pulling component, and the pulling component may be a corresponding recess integrated about a corresponding panel of the package receiving device. According to an advantageous embodiment, the pulling component is operatively provided about the bottom panel of the package receiving device, and preferably also, the pulling component is operatively defined by the slot of the bottom panel of the package receiving device, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents and/or locations are also contemplated by the present invention for the mailing slot and/or pulling component.
[0168] As way of example and depending on the specific nature/construction of the bottom/covering panel assembly, the slot and/or pulling component could provided about a top portion of the at least one covering panel, for example. Alternatively also, the pulling component could be some sort of embossed and/or protruding pulling component.
[0169] As can be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may includes a drainage system for draining liquid (ex. rain, melted snow, etc.) accumulated in the containment space. As exemplified in the drawings, the drainage system may include at least one component selected from the group consisting of draining hole and drainage channel, and according to the embodiment exemplified in the drawings, the drainage system is provided about an inner side of the bottom panel, and includes at least one centralized drainage hole and a series of converging drainage channels, although various other suitable mechanical equivalents and/or dispositions are also contemplated by the present invention for the drainage system.
[0170] As also exemplified in the accompanying drawings, the package receiving device may include at least one light emitting device, which may be provided about a lower portion of the package receiving device, for example, when operated in the at least one first configuration. According to a possible embodiment, the at least one light emitting device is operatively provided about the bottom panel of the package receiving device. Alternatively and depending on the specific nature/construction of the bottom/covering panel assembly, the at least one light emitting device could be located about a bottom portion of the at least one covering panel of the package receiving device.
[0171] Either way, and according to a possible embodiment, the at least one light emitting device can include a dusk sensor and may be operable during low-light conditions (ex. at dusk, night, etc.). As can be easily understood, the at least one light emitting device may be connected (and/or operatively connectable, etc.) to a source of energy (ex. electrical wiring, battery pack, solar panel, etc.) for proper operation.
[0172] The at least one light emitting device may includes at least one light emitting diode (LED), for example, although other suitable lighting equivalents are also contemplated by the present invention for the at least one light emitting device, and according to a possible embodiment, and as exemplified in the accompanying figures, the at least one light emitting device includes a pair of light emitting devices, each being disposed about a corresponding side of the package receiving device.
[0173] Optionally, the package receiving device is commercialized under a given trademark name, and the given trademark name may be present on the at least one covering panel so as to be visible when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration (ex. a collapsed configuration). The given trademark name may be embossed and/or engraved on the at least one covering panel, for example, although other suitable ways of displaying are also contemplated by the present invention for the given trademark name. According to one possible embodiment, the package receiving device is commercialized under the trademark name of Pelican™, which is one possible trademark name contemplated by the Applicant/Assignee of the present case.
[0174] According to a possible embodiment, and as can be easily understood when referring to the accompanying drawings, components of the package receiving device can be made to be modular and/or interchangeable according to specific needs of user(s) of the package receiving device.
[0175] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided also a kit with corresponding components for assembling a package receiving device according to described and/or illustrated in the present patent specification. The package receiving device may also comprise a mounting component (and/or kit) for mounting (ex. either securely, fixedly, temporarily, adjustably, etc.) the package receiving device (and/or corresponding components thereof) onto a given structure (ex. wall, railing, floor, etc.). Namely, the package receiving device may also comprise corresponding railing component(s) (ex. bar(s), and associated hardware, such as bolt(s), rivet(s), fastener(s), etc.), for installing the package receiving device onto a corresponding railing, for example.
[0176] Other possible aspect(s), object(s), embodiment(s), variant(s), and/or resulting advantage(s) of the present package receiving device (1), all being preferred and/or optional, are briefly explained hereinbelow, and can be easily understood and/or inferred from the accompanying drawings, as well.
[0177] Namely, several modification(s), alteration(s), addition(s) and/or simplification(s) could be made to the present package receiving device (1), depending on the intended purpose(s) and/or desired result(s), without departing from the scope of the present invention, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
[0178] For example, each side panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panel, and/or front panel, etc.), whether it be full, opaque, transparent, translucid and/or transparent, could provided with a corresponding orifice (ex. for aeration, manipulating, visual inspection, etc.). This corresponding orifice could come in various shapes and sizes, but according to a possible embodiment, each orifice could be substantially circular, could be disposed in a substantially centralized area of a respective panel, and could also act as a a finger-port hole, for example.
[0179] Furthermore, instead of the aforementioned fingerguard(s), the package receiving device could be provided with at least one side flange for laterally covering the at least one side panel (ex. left and/or right lateral panel(s)) when the package receiving device is operated in the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device). According to a possible embodiment, the package receiving device could include at least one pair of side flanges (ex. left and right side flanges) for laterally covering left and right side portions respectively of the at least one side panel (ex. left and right lateral panels) when the package receiving device is operated into the at least one first configuration (for example, during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device), and the left and right lateral panels could be hingedly connectable (ex. operatively mounted, connected movable, pivotable, rotatable, etc.) to the left and right side flanges respectively of the package receiving device, for example. Similarly to the above-discussed, each side flange (ex. left and/or right side flange) could also be provided with a corresponding orifice (ex. for aeration, manipulating, visual inspection, etc.).
[0180] As may now be better appreciated, the present package receiving device (1) is a considerable improvement over conventional ways of delivering and receiving packages, parcels and the like, in that it overcomes the many drawbacks and inconveniences associated with such ways. Indeed, the present system enables a package to be delivered at a given destination, easily, safely and conveniently, in that the package is considerably much less exposed to theft and/or weather-damage when contained and secured inside the package receiving device, and the intended recipient need not miss work and/or school, or even have to waste time, energy and/or effort having to deal with delivery companies, or even having to go pick up the package at an alternate location, because it is left securely in the package receiving device (1), that he/she may open, at his/her convenience, using a corresponding key and/or other suitable unlocking mechanism associated to said package receiving device (1), etc.
[0181] As may also be better appreciated, the present package receiving device (1) is also a considerable improvement over conventional devices for various other different reasons. For example, the present receiving device (1) offers a very clean and compact configuration when operated into the at least first configuration (i.e. during a collapsed or closed configuration of the package receiving device). Indeed, the outermost side of the bottom panel (i.e. the covering panel) is the only most prevalent component that can be seen of the package receiving device, and all other remaining components (i.e. left and right lateral panels, frontal panel, top panel(s), locking mechanism, etc.) are not only completely concealed by the outermost side of the bottom panel (i.e. the covering panel), but also, are completely contained and protected between said bottom panel and the mounting panel. Furthermore, the curved configuration of the outermost side of the bottom panel (i.e. the covering panel), along with tapered left and right distal edges, provides the package receiving device with a very slim look. Furthermore, and as explained above, given that the covering panel can be provided with an outer layer (ex. skin, etc.) made similar and/or identical to a surrounding environment (ex. bricks of a wall of a home, aluminum siding, etc.) of the package receiving device, the latter offers a very discreet and unobtrusive package receiving device, something that is not possible with other conventional devices. The present package receiving device is also advantageous in that it provides a user for a simplified, and very natural and very intuitive use. Indeed, when exposed to the package receiving device in the collapsed (or closed) configuration, the user will instinctively be drawn to the slot which, as explained above and according to a possible embodiment, is situated on an upper portion of the bottom panel, lending itself to a very simple pulling action downwardly, and the remaining components of the package receiving device are then deployed biasedly via corresponding spring(s) and/or further naturally and intuitively by the user due to the design, operation and the positioning of the panels (ex left and right lateral panels, frontal panel, top panel(s), etc.) which are meant to be easily disposed with respect to one another in order to define the containment space (in the embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, having a geometry corresponding to that of a rectangular prism, which is generally complementary to that of most packages, further directing the user into a very simple, nature and intuitive operation of the panels, etc.). This is further assisted by the presence of retaining component(s) operating between top panel(s) and associated side panel(s) (ex. left and/or right lateral panel, and/or font panel, etc.), and/or by magnet(s) operating between corresponding adjacent side panels, that contribute to assist in positioning and maintaining the various panels of the package receiving device in place. The present package receiving device (1) is also very advantageous with respect to other conventional devices, in that, it is symmetrical, and operated in a very centralized manner (ex. all panels and contained and operated within a spanning width defined by the bottom and mounting panels), for an easier and more compact use of the product, etc.
[0182] The present package receiving device (1) and corresponding parts are preferably made of substantially rigid materials, such as metallic materials, hardened polymers, composite materials, polymeric materials, and/or the like, so as to ensure a proper operation thereof depending on the particular applications for which the package receiving device (1) is intended and the different parameters (weights, loads, moments, etc.) in cause, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
[0183] Of course, and as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art, the scope of the claims should not be limited by the possible embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.
[0184] Furthermore, although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been briefly described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these embodiments and that various changes and modifications could be made without departing form the scope and spirit of the present invention, as defined in the appended claims and as apparent to a person skilled in the art.