Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a delivery inspection and verification device, designed to assist delivery agents by analyzing parcels for potential damage, defects, or discrepancies in appearance, while also detecting counterfeit items.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Parcel inspection and verification are crucial processes in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and security of shipments, particularly in logistics and e-commerce. These procedures involve checking the condition, contents, and authenticity of parcels to prevent errors, fraud, and damage during handling. Inspection helps identify any discrepancies, such as incorrect or missing items, damaged packaging, or surface imperfections, while verification confirms that the parcel matches its associated documentation, including tracking information and recipient details. This step is vital in preventing losses, improving customer satisfaction, and maintaining trust in the delivery process. Additionally, verification helps identify issues like counterfeit goods or incorrect fabric types in textile shipments, ensuring compliance with specifications. By implementing thorough inspection and verification systems, businesses can reduce the risk of returns, enhance operational efficiency, and provide a seamless, reliable experience for both customers and service providers, ultimately safeguarding the overall supply chain.

[0003] Traditional methods of parcel inspection and verification typically involve manual checks, where staff physically inspect each package to ensure it matches the shipping documentation, label, and contents. This often includes checking for damage, weight, dimensions, and compliance with regulations. While effective for smaller operations, these methods are time-consuming, prone to human error, and lack scalability. Manual inspection can also lead to inconsistencies in quality control, as workers may miss details or misinterpret shipment information. Moreover, the process is labor-intensive, requiring significant workforce involvement and increasing operational costs. Additionally, the reliance on physical inspection limits the speed of verification, which can delay shipments and reduce customer satisfaction. In an age of increasing e-commerce volumes, these drawbacks make traditional inspection methods inefficient, especially for large-scale or high-speed operations where automation and technology-driven solutions are becoming more essential.

[0004] US2021078045A1 includes a pickup device including a pickup portion for picking up and holding a to-be-identified parcel, and a first identification device disposed on the pickup portion, where the first identification device identifies parcel information on a side that is of the to-be-identified parcel and that faces towards the pickup portion; and a second identification device disposed outside the pickup device, where the second identification device configured identifies parcel information on other sides that are of the to-be-identified parcel and that are other than the side facing towards the pickup portion. The parcel identification apparatus and the parcel sorting apparatus automatically identifies the parcel information without manual intervention in a parcel information identification step of a parcel sorting process.

[0005] CN117829439A discloses a package sampling verification method, a package sampling verification device, electronic equipment and a storage medium, wherein the package sampling verification method comprises the following steps: acquiring first package point cloud information of a candidate package and second package point cloud information obtained after sampling the candidate package; determining target sampling packages in the candidate packages according to the point cloud change information between the first package point cloud information and the second package point cloud information; and comparing the target sampling package with packages to be sampled in the candidate packages to obtain a sampling check result. Therefore, the package sampling verification provided by the embodiment of the application can verify the actually sampled target sampling package during package sampling inspection, and judge whether the target sampling package is the package to be sampled, so that the occurrence of artificial irregular operation conditions is reduced. And moreover, the process of package sampling verification depends on point cloud change information among package point cloud information, and manual supervision is not needed, so that the manpower consumption and the cost can be reduced.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices disclose package sampling verification methods, but these devices typically focus on random or selective inspection without providing a comprehensive solution for delivery agents. Unlike the present invention, these conventional devices do not assist delivery agents in systematically analyzing parcels for potential damage, defects, or discrepancies in appearance. Additionally, they do not have the capability to detect counterfeit items, limiting their effectiveness in ensuring the authenticity and integrity of parcels. As a result, the conventional systems fall short in offering a thorough, automated, and reliable method for verifying and inspecting parcels throughout the delivery process.

[0007] To overcome the limitations of conventional parcel inspection methods, there is a clear need in the art to develop a device that assists delivery agents by automatically analyzing parcels for potential damage, defects, or discrepancies in appearance, while also detecting counterfeit items. Such a device would ensure a more accurate, efficient, and reliable inspection process, reducing human error, enhancing the detection of hidden or subtle defects, and improving the overall security and authenticity of parcels.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that assists delivery agents in inspecting and verifying parcels by analyzing the appearance for potential damage, defects, or discrepancies, and detecting any counterfeit items, ensuring that the contents are intact and authentic, thereby enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the inspection process.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that verifies the identity of a parcel by scanning and reading the QR code on the package, ensuring accurate tracking, authentication, and confirmation of the parcel’s details, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of the delivery process while reducing the risk of errors or misidentification.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that guides the agent onto areas of a parcel identified as potentially damaged or compromised, thereby enhancing the visibility of internal or hidden defects, facilitating more accurate inspection and detection of issues that may not be visible under normal conditions or lighting.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a delivery inspection and verification device that aids delivery agents by analyzing parcels for potential damage, defects, or discrepancies in appearance, and detecting counterfeit items, ensuring accurate inspections and verification, and enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the delivery process while preventing the delivery of compromised or fraudulent items.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a delivery inspection and verification device, comprising a cuboidal body for accommodating multiple parcels inside the body via a motorized lid attached with a top portion of the body, a touch interactive display panel mounted on the body to provide input details related to each parcel being delivered or received, a pair of semi-circular plates by a pair of L-shaped telescopic link positioned on base of the body securely hold a parcel, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the body detect potential defects, damage, or counterfeit items, an array of sensors integrated with the body detect temperature anomalies, scratches or surface damage, presence of contaminants, hidden cracks on the parcel, a motorized clamping unit attached to the base by a collapsible rod adjusts the parcel tag, a bar code reader configured with the body scan QR (Quick Response) code on tag to verify parcel identity and ensure accurate matching with stored data in the database.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a delivery inspection and verification device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0020] The present invention relates to a delivery inspection and verification device that helps delivery agents assess parcels by analyzing their appearance for damage, defects, discrepancies, and detecting counterfeit items, ensuring accurate inspection and verification to improve the reliability and efficiency of the parcel delivery process.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of a delivery inspection and verification device is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal body 101 with a motorized lid 102 at the top portion, a touch interactive display panel 103 mounted on the body 101, a pair of semi-circular plates 104 by a pair of L-shaped telescopic link 105, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on the body 101, a motorized clamping unit 107 attached to the base by a collapsible rod 109, a bar code reader 108 configured with the body 101, a holographic projection unit 110 mounted on the body 101, and a speaker 111 arranged on the body 101.

[0022] The device proposed herein includes a cuboidal body 101 that is developed to be accessed by delivery agents for accommodating multiple parcels inside the body 101 for an inspection and verification of the parcels. The body 101 as mentioned herein serves as a structural foundation to various components associated with the device, wherein the body 101 is made up of material that includes but not limited to stainless steel, which in turn ensures that the device is of generous size and is light in weight.

[0023] In order to activate functioning of the device, a user is required to manually switch on the device by pressing a button positioned on the body 101, wherein the button used herein is a push button. Upon pressing of the button, the circuits get closed allowing conduction of electricity that leads to activation of the device and vice versa. When the delivery person reaches the user, the parcel/object will be first opened and checked thoroughly via the device before accepting the order. When the user returns the parcel, the device matches the returned item with the corresponding data when it was delivered to the user to verify whether the correct item has been returned and to check if the parcel has been used or is in a damaged condition.

[0024] Upon activation of the device by the user, an inbuilt microcontroller embedded within the body 101 and linked to the switch generates a command to activate a motorized lid 102 attached with a top portion of the body 101 for allowing the agent to store the parcels inside the body 101, in a segregated manner. The motorized lid 102 operates using an electric motor connected to a hinge. When activated, the motor applies rotational force to the hinge, causing the lid 102 to open or close smoothly for allowing the agent to store the parcels inside the body 101, in a segregated manner.

[0025] A touch interactive display panel 103 mounted on the body 101 is actuated by the microcontroller for enabling the agent to provide input details related to each parcel being delivered or received. The touch interactive display panel 103 as mentioned herein is typically an (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details related to each parcel being delivered or received. The touch controller is typically connected to the microcontroller through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).

[0026] In response to input details of the agent, the microcontroller retains all provided details in a database linked with the microcontroller and subsequently actuates a pair of L-shaped telescopic link 105 positioned on base of the body 101 and connected to a pair of semi-circular plates 104 to securely hold a parcel. The L-shaped telescopic link 105 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the link 105. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the link 105 and due to applied pressure the link 105 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the telescopic link 105 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the link 105 in order to securely hold the parcel in between the plates 104.

[0027] Upon securely holding of the parcel in between the plates 104, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on the body 101 to analyze and detect potential defects, damage, or counterfeit items. The imaging unit 106 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images in the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 106 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 106 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines potential defects, damage, or counterfeit items. To be particular, the image recognition device also identifies any differences in appearance, such as size, shape, color, texture, and the logo or serial number written on the parcel, to detect a fake or duplicate item.

[0028] An array of sensors integrated with the body 101, including a thermal sensor, an infrared sensor, a chemical sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor, works in coordination to detect temperature anomalies, scratches or surface damage, presence of contaminants, hidden cracks on the parcel. The thermal sensor measures temperature fluctuations, identifying areas with abnormal heat signatures that may indicate internal defects, such as overheating or heat retention from hidden cracks. When the parcel is held by the semicircular plates, the thermal sensor activates to identify any unusual heat (for example, if the parcel has been overheated by the user or if the sensor detects abnormal heat). The infrared sensor detects surface damage, including scratches or wear, by analyzing the reflected infrared light, with disruptions revealing irregularities on the surface. The chemical sensor detects the presence of contaminants like oils, solvents, or chemical residues, which may be indicative of surface degradation or environmental damage. The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting sound waves and analyzing their reflections to detect hidden cracks or voids on the parcel. Together, these sensors coordinate to provide a comprehensive analysis, enabling the microcontroller to identify temperature anomalies, surface scratches, contamination, and hidden structural defects of the parcel and accordingly displays an alert message on the display panel 103 based on real-time verification results, regarding any defects detected in the parcel.

[0029] A textile sensor with integrated on the body 101 verify fabric type of a textile parcel at time of delivery in sync with the imaging unit 106. The textile sensor works by analyzing the fabric's physical properties, such as texture, weight, and composition. During delivery, the sensor scans the textile parcel and measures these characteristics to identify the fabric type. In sync with the imaging unit 106, which captures visual details like color and pattern, the sensor’s data is cross-referenced with predefined fabric profiles in a database. This combined information allows the microcontroller to accurately verify the fabric type, confirming the authenticity and specifications of the textile parcel at the time of delivery, comparing the detected fabric with product images stored in a database, and if discrepancies in fabric type are detected, the microcontroller triggers a rejection or alert message on the display panel 103 to either accept or deny the parcel.

[0030] A motorized clamping unit 107 attached to the base and comprising a collapsible rod 109 connected between base and clamping unit 107 are subsequently actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position the clamping unit 107 for precise adjustment of a parcel tag. The extension/retraction of the collapsible rod 109 is regulated by the microcontroller by in the same manner as the L-shaped telescopic link 105, by employing the pneumatic unit, to extend and position the clamping unit 107 for precise adjustment of a parcel tag. The motorized clamping unit 107 is a fastening equipment used to hold or secure the parcel tag tightly. Clamping unit 107 comprises a pair of curved motorize clamps, attached with motor to grip the parcel tag. Motor is actuated by the microcontroller to open/close the motorize clamps to grip the parcel tag in a secured manner.

[0031] A ball-and-socket joint included in the clamping unit 107 is actuated by the microcontroller for allowing movement in all directions to position tag for proper scanning by attached bar code reader 108. The ball and socket joint provides a rotation to the clamping unit 107 for aiding the clamping unit 107 to turn at a required angle. The ball and socket joint is a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, where the ball joint is able to move in a 360-dgree rotation within the socket thus, providing the required rotational motion to the clamping unit 107. The ball and socket joint is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller thus providing multidirectional movement to the clamping unit 107 for allowing movement in all directions to position tag for proper scanning by attached bar code reader 108.

[0032] A bar code reader 108 configured with the body 101 scans QR (Quick Response) code on tag to verify parcel identity. The barcode reader 108 scans a QR (Quick Response) code on a parcel tag using a laser or camera-based sensor. The QR code contains encoded data, such as the parcel's unique identity or tracking information. When the reader 108 captures the code, it decodes the information and verifies the parcel's identity by matching it to a database. The microcontroller then processes the data by matching with stored data in the database, confirming the parcel's authenticity, tracking its status, and ensuring accurate handling during logistics or delivery processes.

[0033] A holographic projection unit 110 mounted on the body 101 is activated by the microcontroller to project beams of light onto areas of parcel that are identified by microcontroller as potentially damaged or compromised, enhancing visibility of internal or hidden defects. The holographic projection unit 110 works by creating and projecting holograms, which are three dimensional images formed by the interference of light waves. Firstly, the laser light from the holographic projection unit 110 is split into two beams, the object beam which interacts with the parcel and light waves are altered based on the shape and features of the reference beam which remains unchanged. The altered object beam and the reference beam intersect to create an interference pattern. This pattern is reordered on a photosensitive surface such as a holographic plate. The interference pattern contains information about the phase and amplitude of the light waves preserving the three-dimensional details of the parcel during projection, a laser beam is directed onto the recorded interference pattern diffracting the laser light, reconstructing the original wavefronts from the parcel and the reference beams. The reconstructed wavefronts create a three-dimensional image that appears to float in space to project beams of light onto areas of parcel that are identified by microcontroller as potentially damaged or compromised, enhancing visibility of internal or hidden defects.

[0034] A speaker 111 arranged on the body 101 is dynamically activated by the microcontroller to provide audio feedback and alerts whenever a defect or discrepancy is detected during verification process. The speaker 111 works by receiving signals from the microcontroller, converting them into sound waves through a diaphragm’s vibration, and producing audible sounds with the help of amplification and control circuitry in order to provide audio feedback and alerts whenever a defect or discrepancy is detected during verification process.

[0035] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is preferably a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0036] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cuboidal body 101 that is developed to be accessed by delivery agents for accommodating multiple parcels inside the body 101 for the inspection and verification of the parcels. Upon activation of the device by the user, the microcontroller generates the command to activate the motorized lid 102 for allowing the agent to store the parcels inside the body 101, in the segregated manner. The touch interactive display panel 103 is actuated by the microcontroller for enabling the agent to provide input details related to each parcel being delivered or received. In response to input details of the agent, the microcontroller retains all provided details in the database linked with the microcontroller and subsequently actuates the pair of L-shaped telescopic link 105 connected to the pair of semi-circular plates 104 to securely hold the parcel. Upon securely holding of the parcel in between the plates 104, the microcontroller activates the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 to analyze and detect potential defects, damage, or counterfeit items. The array of sensors integrated with the body 101, including the thermal sensor, the infrared sensor, the chemical sensor, and the ultrasonic sensor, works in coordination to detect temperature anomalies, scratches or surface damage, presence of contaminants, hidden cracks on the parcel.

[0037] In continuation, the textile sensor with integrated on the body 101 verify fabric type of the textile parcel at time of delivery coordinated with the imaging unit 106. The microcontroller to extend and position the clamping unit 107 for precise adjustment of the parcel tag subsequently actuates the motorized clamping unit 107. The bar code reader 108 configured with the body 101 scans QR (Quick Response) code on tag to verify parcel identity. the holographic projection unit 110 is activated by the microcontroller to project beams of light onto areas of parcel that are identified by microcontroller as potentially damaged or compromised, enhancing visibility of internal or hidden defects. The speaker 111 is dynamically activated by the microcontroller to provide audio feedback and alerts whenever the defect or discrepancy is detected during verification process.

[0038] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A delivery inspection and verification device, comprising:

i) a cuboidal body 101 developed to be accessed by a delivery person for accommodating multiple parcels inside said body 101, wherein a motorized lid 102 is attached with a top portion of said body 101, dynamically regulated by an inbuilt microcontroller for allowing said person(s) to store said parcels inside said body 101 in a segregated manner;
ii) a touch interactive display panel 103 mounted on said body 101 for enabling said person(s) to provide input details related to each parcel being delivered or received, wherein said microcontroller retains all provided details in a database linked with said microcontroller;
iii) a pair of semi-circular plates 104 are positioned on base of said body 101 to securely hold a parcel, each semi-circular plates 104 is adjusted by a pair of L-shaped telescopic link 105 connected to said base;
iv) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on said body 101, paired with an image recognition module to capture images of parcel from multiple angles and analyze for damage, defects, or discrepancies in parcel’s appearance and detect potential defects, damage, or counterfeit items;
v) an array of sensors integrated with said body 101 that works in coordination to detect temperature anomalies, scratches or surface damage, presence of contaminants, hidden cracks on said parcel, said microcontroller aggregates information from said sensors and imaging unit 106, and displays an alert message on said display panel 103 based on real-time verification results, regarding any defects detected in said parcel; and
vi) a motorized clamping unit 107 attached to said base, comprising a collapsible rod 109 connected between base and clamping unit 107 to extend and position said clamping unit 107 for precise adjustment of a parcel tag, wherein a bar code reader 108 is configured with said body 101 to scan QR (Quick Response) code on tag to verify parcel identity and ensure accurate matching with stored data in said database.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a textile sensor with integrated on said body 101 and synced with said imaging unit 106 to verify fabric type of a textile parcel at time of delivery, comparing said detected fabric with product images stored in a database, and if discrepancies in fabric type are detected, said microcontroller triggers a rejection or alert message on said display panel 103 to either accept or deny said parcel.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensors include a thermal sensor, an infrared sensor, a chemical sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a holographic projection unit 110 is mounted on said body 101, configured to project beams of light onto areas of parcel identified by microcontroller as potentially damaged or compromised, enhancing visibility of internal or hidden defects.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a speaker 111 is arranged on said body 101, dynamically activated by said microcontroller to provide audio feedback and alerts whenever a defect or discrepancy is detected during verification process.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said clamping unit 107 further includes a ball-and-socket joint allowing movement in all directions to position tag for proper scanning by attached bar code reader 108.